History of American Abolitionismits Four Great Epochs, Embracing Narratives of the Ordinance of 1787, Compromise of 1820, Annexation of Texas, Mexican War, Wilmot Proviso, Negro Insurrections, Abolition Riots, Slave Rescues, Compromise of 1850, Kansas Bill of 1854, John Brown Insurrection, 1859, Valuable Statistics, &c., &c., &c., Together with a History of the Southern Confederacy.

A historical account written in the mid-19th century. The work examines the evolution and impact of the abolitionist movement in the United States, tracing its roots from the 1787 Ordinance to the tumultuous events leading up to the Civil War. It provides insights into the legislative actions, societal influences, and conflicts surrounding the fight against slavery, offering a detailed perspective on how abolitionism shaped American society. The opening of the book introduces the reader to the complex atmosphere of the era, characterized by intense debates over slavery and the moral, political, and social discord it caused. De Fontaine reflects on the dual nature of abolitionists—those driven by genuine humanitarian concerns and the radical faction willing to disrupt the nation's fabric for immediate emancipation. The text outlines the historical context of abolitionism, detailing pivotal moments and the interplay between Northern and Southern sentiments. This introductory portion sets the stage for a comprehensive exploration of how abolitionism influenced legislation and heightened tensions in the United States, ultimately contributing to the onset of the Civil War.