John Andrew Jackson: The Escaped Slave Who Inspired Uncle Tom's Cabin

We are going to chart a course into the turbulent waters of American history and have a conversation as we sail through the life of John Andrew Jackson, an escaped slave whose story is as riveting as it is pivotal. Dr. Susanna Ashton, a professor at Clemson University and the author of A Plausible Man, takes us on a journey that begins with Jackson’s harrowing escape from slavery in South Carolina and his unexpected encounter with Harriet Beecher Stowe, the author of 'Uncle Tom's Cabin'.

With wit and insight, Dr. Ashton reveals how Jackson's narrative, filled with clever banter and sharp observations, not only inspired Stowe's famous novel Uncle Tom's Cabin, but also played an essential role in the abolitionist movement. The conversation flows exploring themes of resilience, identity, and the power of storytelling, all while shedding light on the often-overlooked characters who shaped the fight against slavery. The episode serves as a powerful reminder of the human spirit's capacity to endure and inspire change.

[00:00] The Fugitive Slave Ad

[00:38] Harriet Beecher Stowe's Encounter

[02:04] Introduction to St. Louis in Tune

[04:13] Interview with Dr. Susanna Ashton

[05:50] John Andrew Jackson's Story

[17:22] Jackson's Life in England and Beyond

[21:50] The Impact of Uncle Tom's Cabin

[30:17] Research and Writing Process

[32:08] Life's Unexpected Turns

[32:28] Llama Adventures During COVID

[33:14] The Canadian Census Mystery

[37:13] Jackson's Literacy Journey

[42:02] Uncovering Family Roots

[44:27] Upcoming Speaking Events

[45:11] The Importance of Primary Sources

[48:52] Final Thoughts and Reflections

Takeaways:

• Dr. Susanna Ashton dives deep into the life of John Andrew Jackson, revealing his journey from slavery to becoming an influential figure behind Uncle Tom's Cabin.
• The story highlights the importance of personal narratives in understanding historical contexts, especially regarding slavery and freedom.
• Ashton emphasizes the role of primary sources in history, encouraging listeners to explore documents that tell the real stories of marginalized voices.
• We learn how Jackson's wit and charisma not only helped him escape bondage but also made him a captivating speaker and storyteller who influenced many.
• The episode reveals how Harriet Beecher Stowe's encounter with Jackson inspired her to write Uncle Tom's Cabin, changing the course of American literature.
• Ashton discusses the challenges Jackson faced in his later life, including his efforts to support his family and community after escaping slavery.

• Susanna Ashton, Ph.D.
• Susanna Ashton | Clemson University College of Arts and Humanities
• A Plausible Man | The New Press
• A Plausible Man - Instagram
• @susannaashton.bsky.social on Bluesky

This is Season 8! For more episodes, go to stlintune.com

#harrietbeecherstowe #uncletomscabin #susannaashton #johnandrewjackson #slavenarrative #charlesspurgeon #americanliterature

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