Bounds Quote by George Washington
![“Upon the decease [of] my wife, it is my Will and desire th[at] all the Slaves which I hold in [my] own right, shall receive their free[dom] . . . . The Negroes thus bound, are (by their Masters or Mistresses) to be taught to read and write; and to be brought up to some useful occupation, agreeably…” quote by George Washington](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/ae7/george-washington-257_bounds_upon-the-decease-of-my-wife-it-is-my-wil_3182279.jpg)
“Upon the decease [of] my wife, it is my Will and desire th[at] all the Slaves which I hold in [my] own right, shall receive their free[dom] . . . . The Negroes thus bound, are (by their Masters or Mistresses) to be taught to read and write; and to be brought up to some useful occupation, agreeably to the Laws of the Commonwealth of Virginia, providing for the support of Orphan and other poor Children. And I do hereby expressly forbid the Sale, or transportation out of the said Commonwealth, of any Slave I may die possessed of, under any pretence whatsoever.”
About This Quote
Source Document: Virginia General Assembly Act, 1785
He frees his own slaves, mandates education and vocational training, and prohibits further sale or transport of slaves.
In simple terms: Manumission with education and protection.
Key Takeaway
Promote humane treatment and skill building.
Themes
freedom
education
human rights
Mood
thoughtful
determined
Type
historical
ethical
When to use this quote
- family inheritance
- legal reform
- education policy
Key Concepts
abolition
social responsibility
Questions to Reflect On
- How can education empower freed individuals?
- What obstacles arise in enforcing such laws?
A Different Perspective
Implementation depended on broader societal acceptance.
![“[Dom Juan] believes neither in Heaven, nor the saints, nor God, nor the Werewolf.” quote by Moliere](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/0bf/moliere-965_believe_dom-juan-believes-neither-in-heaven-nor_510712.jpg)
