Women of Distinction: Matilda J. Dunbar

Abstract

The subject of this sketch was born in Shelby County, Kentucky. She had many thrilling experiences during the time spent in slavery. In her own language she tells some highly interesting facts concerning her life. She pondered over her condition, wondering why she was not permitted to learn to read – why she was compelled to work for people who gave her few clothes and no wages – why she could not live with her mother and grandmother – in fact why she was a slave – dangerous thoughts for a young woman in bondage – but these and other thoughts kept obtruding until she found resentment against her condition had filled her bosom.