Eli Whitney’s invention of the cotton gin transformed the nature of U. S. slavery in the early 1800s. Enslavement grew larger and more profitable than ever before in the nation’s history. While Southern states took steps to protect the practice, a growing antislavery movement was brewing in the North. Both free and enslaved African Americans took great risk in supporting abolition or aiding escaped slaves. They inspire modern movements to protect equal rights and protection for all. Now that you are familiar with the cotton gin, the Underground Railroad, and key abolitionists, you will reflect on your learning by answering questions.

You will answer each question with a paragraph of complete sentences of your own words. Be sure to mention specific events, people, and terms from the lesson to support your answer.

How did the invention of the cotton gin affect slavery in the United States?
What was the Underground Railroad? Your response needs to include and explain the terms conductor, lines, station, and freight.
How did men like William Lloyd Garrison, Reverend Lovejoy, and Fredrick Douglass participate in the abolitionist movement?