The Escapes of David George; An Odyssey of Slavery, Freedom, and the American Revolution by Gregory E. O'Malley

Slavery in early America is often thought of as a dark chapter confined to the antebellum South, far removed from the Revolutionary War era. Yet, one in six people in the original thirteen colonies lived in some form of bondage during that time. Gregory E. O'Malley’s The Escapes of David George brings this overlooked history to life through the remarkable journey of David George, a young enslaved man who escaped captivity and navigated a complex path toward freedom. This book offers a gripping, accessible read that challenges common assumptions about slavery and freedom in colonial America.

A Young Man’s Flight from Bondage

David George was only 19 years old when he escaped from a Virginia plantation in 1762. His story is not just about a single escape but a decades-long odyssey marked by repeated captures and daring flights. George’s journey took him across multiple colonies, covering thousands of miles. Unlike many narratives that focus solely on plantation life, George’s experience included living among diverse communities—white settlers, African Americans, and Native American groups such as the Creek and Natchez.

This broad exposure shaped his understanding of freedom and community in ways that few enslaved people could experience. His ability to navigate these different worlds highlights the complexity of identity and survival during this era.

Seeking Liberty with the British Army

During the American Revolution, George sought freedom by aligning with the British Army, which promised liberty to enslaved people who escaped rebel masters. This promise, however, did not always translate into the freedom many hoped for. George’s experience with the British forces was complicated and did not fully meet his expectations.

Despite this, his time with the British marked a critical phase in his quest for liberty. It also connected him to a broader network of Black Loyalists—enslaved and free African Americans who sided with Britain in hopes of securing their freedom.

Founding One of the First Black Baptist Churches

After the war, David George helped establish what might have been the first Black Baptist church in North America. This church was more than a place of worship; it became a center for community building and resistance against oppression. George’s leadership in this religious movement reflects the important role faith played in African American communities as a source of strength and identity.

The church also symbolized a new form of freedom—spiritual and communal—that went beyond physical escape from slavery. It provided a foundation for future generations to organize and advocate for their rights.

Building a Refuge in Nova Scotia

Following the war, George and other Black Loyalists were resettled in Nova Scotia, Canada. There, they faced harsh conditions but worked to build a settlement that offered refuge from slavery and discrimination. This settlement was one of the earliest attempts to create a free Black community in North America.

The challenges in Nova Scotia were significant, including cold climate, limited resources, and ongoing racial prejudice. Yet, George’s role in helping establish this community shows his commitment to creating spaces where Black people could live with dignity and autonomy.

Leading an Anti-Slavery Community in Sierra Leone

David George’s journey did not end in North America. Later in life, he moved to Sierra Leone, Africa, where he became a leader in an anti-slavery community. This final chapter of his life connects the story of American slavery to the broader Atlantic world and the global fight against slavery.

In Sierra Leone, George helped build a society founded on principles of freedom and equality, offering a powerful example of resilience and hope. His leadership there underscores the transatlantic connections that shaped the lives of many African-descended people during this period.

Why This Story Matters Today

The Escapes of David George is more than a biography; it is a window into a forgotten era of American history. Gregory E. O'Malley’s clear and engaging writing makes this complex story accessible without sacrificing depth. Readers gain insight into the realities of slavery during the colonial and Revolutionary War periods, a time often overlooked in popular narratives.

David George’s life challenges the idea that freedom was a simple or linear process. Instead, it was a continuous struggle involving multiple escapes, alliances, and community-building efforts. His story also highlights the diversity of experiences among enslaved people, showing how they shaped and were shaped by the societies around them.

For anyone interested in American history, slavery, or the fight for freedom, this book offers a compelling and important perspective. It invites readers to rethink what they know about the past and consider the enduring impact of these histories on the present.