The conclusion that can be drawn from this evidence is: Freedom under poor living conditions was still better than enslavement. This is supported by the fact that despite the difficult circumstances and poor living conditions, Peggy experienced more personal freedom than she had previously, indicating that even in tough times, the opportunity for freedom was a positive change compared to her past situation.
Read the following sentences from the text.
“Life for self-emancipated people was not easy. A quarter of New York was burned down in a fire in 1776 and the living conditions for even the wealthiest New Yorkers were terrible. The British colonial government did not have the resources to properly support the self-emancipated people. As a result, there was not always enough food, and many of them lived in makeshift tents in the burned-out parts of the city. There were no records that kept track of which self-emancipated people were supporting the British cause.
Even so, Peggy had more personal freedom than she had ever had before. She could demand payment for her work. She could go to a tavern with friends, dance, and listen to fiddle music.”
What conclusion can you draw from this evidence?
Peggy was not able to enjoy freedom because her job was difficult.
Freedom under poor living conditions was still better than enslavement.
The British Army did not accept help from self-emancipated people.
The wealthiest New Yorkers helped rebuild New York after the fire.
1 answer