A Plea for Captain John Brown Read to the citizens of Concord, Massachusetts on Sunday evening, October thirtieth, eighteen fifty-nine

"A Plea for Captain John Brown" by Henry David Thoreau is an impassioned speech delivered in the late 19th century that addresses the legacy and actions of abolitionist John Brown following his raid at Harpers Ferry. This work takes the form of a public address, wherein Thoreau defends Brown, portraying him as a noble figure fighting against the moral injustices of slavery. Thoreau aims to correct misconceptions spread by the media and society about Brown's character and motives, asserting that true justice requires the recognition of Brown's bravery and commitment to human rights. In this powerful oration, Thoreau outlines John Brown’s life, his dedication to the abolitionist cause, and his belief in the right to take violent action against the institution of slavery. He recounts Brown’s experiences, from his early life to his significant role in the Kansas conflict and ultimately his leadership during the Harpers Ferry raid. Thoreau describes Brown as a man of strong principles, unmatched courage, and profound humanity, contrasting him with the "sane" societal norms he condemns. The speech emphasizes the idea that true heroism can flourish in a society that often fears radical change, urging listeners to recognize and honor Brown’s sacrifice for justice and liberty. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Henry David Thoreau was an American naturalist, essayist, poet, and philosopher. A leading transcendentalist, he is best known for his book Walden, a reflection upon simple living in natural surroundings, and his essay "Civil Disobedience", an argument in favor of citizen disobedience against an unjust state.