author
Samuel J. (Samuel Joseph) May
1797–1871
A fearless nineteenth-century reformer, this Unitarian minister spent his life pressing for the abolition of slavery, better education, and greater rights for women and working people.
1 Audiobook
Some Recollections of Our Antislavery Conflict
by Samuel J. (Samuel Joseph) May
About the author
Born in Boston on September 12, 1797, Samuel Joseph May became one of the best-known American reformers of his era. He studied at Harvard and Harvard Divinity School, then entered the Unitarian ministry, but his influence reached far beyond the pulpit.
May is especially remembered for his outspoken antislavery work. He supported immediate abolition, worked closely with other reformers, and also threw his energy into causes including women's rights, educational reform, peace, and broader social justice. His commitment to racial equality showed in both his public speaking and practical efforts, including support for Black education.
He spent his later years in Syracuse, New York, where he continued his reform work until his death on July 1, 1871. For readers today, he stands out as a religious leader who consistently pushed his society to live up to its ideals.