The stigma of slavery has left an impression on the world's psyche. Between 1760 and 1902, more than 200 book-length autobiographies of ex-slaves were published. This text collects together 20 slave narratives. They describe whippings, torture, starvation, escapes, slave auctions, sexual abuse, and murders. They also explore the triumphs and difficulties of life as free men and women. This anthology presents the narratives unabridged and each is accompanied by helpful introductions and annotations.