Antebellum Reform Impulses in America

These flashcards cover key concepts related to the reform movements and utopian communities in antebellum America, focusing on the role of voluntary associations, major figures, and significant ideologies.

What were the main types of voluntary associations during the antebellum period?

They included clubs, political parties, and religious organizations.

What was the primary goal of many voluntary associations in the antebellum period?

To bring about social change.

What are utopian communities?

Societies that aimed to create a perfect or near-perfect world.

What did the Shakers emphasize in their community?

Spiritual equality of men and women, communitarianism, and celibacy.

Who founded the Shaker community?

Mother Ann Lee.

What was the main issue with Shaker celibacy?

It led to a lack of reproduction and population growth.

What is complex marriage, and which community practiced it?

A term for polygamy practiced by the Oneida community.

Who founded the Oneida community?

John Noyes.

What idea did Robert Owen promote through the Owenites?

Communitarianism as a means for workers to own the full value of their labor.

What significant social reform was inspired by Robert Owen's ideas?

The labor movement and women's rights.

What was the temperance movement?

A reform movement aimed at reducing or eliminating alcohol consumption.

What was the American Colonization Society's primary goal?

To gradually abolish slavery and resettle black Americans in Africa.

Which colony was established by the American Colonization Society?

Liberia.

Who was William Lloyd Garrison, and what did he publish?

An abolitionist who published 'The Liberator,' advocating for immediate emancipation.

What was the philosophy of moral suasion in the abolitionist movement?

A strategy to convince slaveholders to free their slaves through moral arguments.

What key text did abolitionists invoke to support their arguments for equality?

The Declaration of Independence.

What core principle do abolitionists argue against in their movement?

The institution of slavery and racial prejudice.