Page 90 - JM Book 9/2020

It is estimated there were 500,000 slaves throughout the thirteen colonies in 1776. The total population numbered three million people.
The majority of the delegates agreed with the slavery clause, but not the men from South Carolina and Georgia, who represented the two colonies with the largest number of slaves. These words were offensive to them and to their way of life.
Speaking on behalf of the South Carolina and Georgia delegates, Edward Rutledge argued that: “Slave labor is essential to the economies of our colonies. The cultivation of our crops depends upon slave labor. To condemn the practice would be fatal. Unless this section is removed, we have no other choice but to vote against ratification of the declaration.”
John Adams did his best to defend the clause. He argued that slavery was inconsistent with the principles expressed in the declaration. As he talked, his face turned red and his voice got louder and louder.
Jefferson grew more upset with each passing minute. He was becoming concerned that the passage might have to be eliminated in order to win the votes of the South Carolina and Georgia delegates. Yet, he hoped Adams would be able to change their minds. As the debate continued, Jefferson’s hope began to fade.
After more debate, Benjamin Harrison reported to President Hancock that the committee of the whole had voted to postpone further consideration of the declaration until tomorrow. The meeting was immediately adjourned until nine o’clock on July the fourth.
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