After being freed from slavery, the freed slaves had various aspirations and desires for a better future. While it is important to note that each individual may have had their own unique goals and dreams, there were some common aspirations that many freed slaves felt would be most beneficial to them:
1. Education: One of the most significant desires of freed slaves was to gain access to education. They recognized that education would provide them with the knowledge and skills needed to improve their lives and secure better opportunities for themselves and their families.
2. Economic Independence: Freed slaves wanted to achieve economic independence and escape the cycle of poverty that slavery had subjected them to. They aspired to have the ability to support themselves and their families through their own labor and entrepreneurial efforts.
3. Land Ownership: Many freed slaves desired to own their own land, as they believed that land ownership would provide them with stability, autonomy, and the opportunity to build a future for themselves. It was seen as a symbol of freedom and a way to break free from the control and exploitation they experienced under slavery.
4. Legal and Political Rights: Freed slaves also sought equal rights and protections under the law. They desired to be treated as full and equal citizens, with the right to vote, hold public office, and have their voices heard in shaping the laws and policies that governed their lives.
5. Social Equality: The freed slaves aimed to be recognized and respected as equal members of society, free from discrimination and prejudice. They wanted to enjoy the same rights, privileges, and opportunities as their white counterparts.
In summary, the freed slaves had a range of aspirations that they felt would be most beneficial to them. These included access to education, economic independence, land ownership, legal and political rights, and social equality. These aspirations reflected their desires for personal growth, economic empowerment, autonomy, and full inclusion in society.