Michael Thurmond Uncovers Hidden Truths
Savannah, Ga. — A groundbreaking discovery at the burial site of Georgia’s colonial founder, James Edward Oglethorpe, has left historian Michael Thurmond astonished. Amongst the accolades for Oglethorpe, a marble plaque bore a single sentence that read: “He was the friend of the Oppressed Negro.”
A Compelling Narrative Unveiled
Thurmond, a prominent figure in Georgia’s political landscape, embarked on a 27-year journey of exploration and research following this revelation. His latest book, “James Oglethorpe, Father Of Georgia — A Founder’s Journey From Slave Trader to Abolitionist,” delves into Oglethorpe’s evolution from a slave trader to an advocate for the abolition of slavery.
Challenging Historical Narratives
Thurmond’s work challenges conventional beliefs about Oglethorpe’s stance on slavery. While historians have traditionally viewed Oglethorpe’s motives for banning slavery in Georgia as pragmatic rather than humanitarian, Thurmond presents a compelling argument for Oglethorpe’s deeper convictions and his influence on early abolitionists in England.
An Unprecedented Perspective
As the first African American to hold statewide office in Georgia, Thurmond brings a unique perspective to the study of colonial Georgia. His analysis sheds light on Oglethorpe’s interactions with enslaved individuals and his role in shaping the discourse around abolition in England.
A Lasting Legacy
Thurmond’s book redefines Oglethorpe’s legacy, positioning him as a visionary whose actions in the 18th century paved the way for the abolition of slavery in both England and the United States. By highlighting Oglethorpe’s overlooked contributions to the abolitionist movement, Thurmond offers a fresh interpretation of Georgia’s founding father.