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Write an essay explaining Keckley’s positions on both slavery and Mrs. Lincoln. Be sure to use proper grammar, conventions, spelling, and grade-appropriate words and phrases. Cite several pieces of textual evidence, including direct quotations and parenthetical citations.

User Alcaprar
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Final answer:

Elizabeth Keckley was opposed to slavery and her autobiography provides a firsthand account of the horrors of slavery. She had a complicated relationship with Mrs. Lincoln.

Step-by-step explanation:

Elizabeth Keckley was a prominent figure in American history, known for her skills as a dressmaker and her close relationship with Mary Todd Lincoln, the wife of President Abraham Lincoln. In her autobiography, 'Behind the Scenes: Or, Thirty Years a Slave and Four Years in the White House,' Keckley expressed her views on both slavery and Mrs. Lincoln.

Regarding slavery, Keckley made it clear that she despised the institution and believed it to be a great evil. She described the horrors of slavery, the suffering endured by enslaved individuals, and the broken families torn apart by this system. As an African American woman who had experienced slavery herself, Keckley had a unique perspective on the brutality and inhumanity of the institution.

On the other hand, Keckley had a complex relationship with Mrs. Lincoln. She viewed her as a friend and confidante, and the two women shared a deep bond. However, Keckley also observed Mrs. Lincoln's flaws and criticized her for her extravagant spending and sometimes erratic behavior. Keckley's account provides insights into the complexities of their relationship, shedding light on the challenges faced by both women during their time in the White House.

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