36 pages • 1 hour read
New York Burning: Liberty, Slavery, and Conspiracy in Eighteenth-Century Manhattan
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Book Brief
352
Book • Nonfiction
New York • 18th century
2005
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In New York Burning, Jill Lepore explores the 1741 conspiracy in Manhattan, where a series of fires led to widespread hysteria and accusations of a slave revolt. The investigation, driven by Supreme Court Justice Daniel Horsmanden, resulted in numerous executions of Black individuals and a few white New Yorkers based on questionable evidence and coerced confessions, revealing deep-rooted racial tensions and injustice in 18th-century New York. Topics include slavery, executions, and racially charged violence.
Informative
Mysterious
Dark
Unnerving
Reviews & Readership
1,024 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
New York Burning by Jill Lepore delivers an engaging narrative on the 1741 slave conspiracy in New York, praised for its thorough research and vivid storytelling. While the book is lauded for its historical depth and accessibility, some critics note that its speculative elements and dense academic detail may not appeal to all readers.
Who Should Read New York Burning?
A reader who enjoys New York Burning by Jill Lepore is likely interested in colonial American history, African American studies, and social justice. They might also appreciate books like The Hemingses of Monticello by Annette Gordon-Reed or The New York Conspiracy Trials of 1741 by Peter Charles Hoffer.
1,024 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
John Hughson
John Hughson
A tavern owner in New York known for allowing slaves and poor whites to gather at his establishment, where he is rumored to involve them in a secret plot.
Jack
Jack
A slave of Gerardus Comfort and neighbor to John Hughson, who becomes involved in the alleged rebellion activities after frequenting Hughson's tavern.
Mary Burton
Mary Burton
An indentured servant in John Hughson's household and a critical witness in the trials, whose testimony becomes pivotal to the investigation.
John Ury
John Ury
A schoolmaster accused of being involved in a rebellion and masquerading as a Catholic priest, leading to a prominent trial.
352
Book • Nonfiction
New York • 18th century
2005
Adult
18+ years
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