She was deemed unfit for marriage, so in 1856 her father married her to the strongest slave, Virginia.
He told me bluntly, “A white man will never marry you.” It’s true. But you need protection. When I die, the inheritance will go to your cousin Robert. He’ll sell everything, give you a few cents, and leave you dependent on distant relatives who don’t care about you. I said, knowing it was impossible, “Then … Read more