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Today in History: Solomon Northup regains freedom from slavery

1/4/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On January 3, 1853, Solomon Northup regained his freedom after being kidnapped and sold into slavery for nearly twelve years. A free-born American, Northup was lured to Washington, D.C. under false pretenses. His memoir, *Twelve Years a Slave*, later detailed his harrowing experiences and became a significant work in the abolitionist movement.

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Story summary

On January 3, 1853, Solomon Northup regained his freedom after being kidnapped and sold into slavery for nearly twelve years. A free-born American, Northup was lured to Washington, D.C. under false pretenses. His memoir, *Twelve Years a Slave*, later detailed his harrowing experiences and became a significant work in the abolitionist movement.