Raid on Harpers Ferry

Harpers Ferry

A US government arsenal.

Arsenal

A large collection of guns and ammunition.

John Brown

A northerner who disliked slavery. planned the raid on Harpers Ferry.

Brown's plan

Break into Harpers Ferry and steal guns. Brown wanted to give the guns to slaves and hoped that the slaves would fight for their freedom.

Raid on Harpers Ferry

Brown's plan did not work. Brown and his men were caught trying to steal guns and were surrounded by army troops. Brown had hoped slaves would help but very few actually showed up. All ofBrown's men were either caught or killed.

Reaction in the North

People saw John Brown as a hero and thought what he did was a good thing. Many people appreciated what Brown did.

Reaction in the South

People thought John Brown was a very evil person. They were worried that more northerners would try to start slave rebellions. Many people wanted to create a new country.

Trial of John Brown

John Brown was brought to court and found guilty of trying to start a rebellion. John Brown was hanged for trying to start a slave rebellion.