Nat Turner

Date of Birth: October 2, 1800

Zodiac Sign: Libra

Date of Death: November 11, 1831

Biography

Nat Turner was an African-American enslaved preacher who led a four-day rebellion of enslaved and free Black people in Southampton County, Virginia, beginning August 21, 1831. Born into slavery, Turner was a deeply religious man who believed he was chosen by God to lead his people out of bondage. His rebellion is considered one of the most significant in American history, resulting in the deaths of approximately 60 white people and leading to severe reprisals, including the murder of about 200 Black people by white militias and mobs. Turner was eventually captured, tried, and executed, but his legacy endured, influencing the abolitionist movement and the fight for civil rights. His actions caused a ripple effect, leading to the imposition of stricter slave codes and heightening tensions that would eventually culminate in the American Civil War.

5 Interesting Facts about Nat Turner

1. Nat Turner claimed to have visions and divine messages from God.

2. His rebellion caused Virginia and other Southern states to pass stricter laws prohibiting the education, movement, and assembly of enslaved people.

3. Turner learned to read and write at a young age, which was rare for enslaved individuals at the time.

4. His rebellion was one of the largest and most effective slave uprisings in U.S. history.

5. Turner was known as “The Prophet” among fellow enslaved people due to his religious fervor and leadership.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Nat Turner

1. “I heard a loud noise in the heavens, and the Spirit instantly appeared to me and said the Serpent was loosened, and Christ had laid down the yoke he had borne for the sins of men, and that I should take it on and fight against the Serpent.”

2. “Good communication is the bridge between confusion and clarity.”

3. “The manner in which I learned to read and write, not only had great influence on my own mind, as I acquired it with the most perfect ease, so much so, that I have no recollection whatever of learning the alphabet.”

4. “Was not Christ crucified?”

5. “I am here loaded with chains and willing to suffer the fate that awaits me.”