The Bill of Rights, adopted in 1791, was written to protect basic American rights, but the freedoms it offered were denied to countless African slaves. That same year, Benjamin Banneker, a free African American and son of former slaves, decided to challenge society's views on slavery. In a letter to Thomas Jefferson, Banneker illustrates the hypocrisy of the Declaration of Independence, describes the oppressive conditions slaves had to endure, and offers a solution for equality to argue against the cruel nature of slavery. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay Banneker uses exemplification, providing a specific case to support his thesis, to illustrate the hypocrisy of the Declaration of Independence. Aiming to capitalize on America's historical struggles, Banneker forces his audience to remember the time when they themselves were victims of oppression. He provides a sensitive example in which America was reduced to a “state of servitude” by the controlling “tyranny of the British Crown” to appeal to his patriotic audience who fought so hard to free their country from oppression. Comparing America's previous state of helplessness to the plight of slaves establishes a sense of guilt among audience members who experienced the same oppression, convincing them to take an anti-slavery viewpoint. Banneker candidly describes the grotesque conditions that slaves are forced to endure through the use of strong language such as “the horrors of his condition” and “groaning captivity” and “cruel oppression.” Horrific and frightening, the description evokes a sense of pity in the audience as they imagine the unbearable obstacles that slaves face every day. The audience – still racked by guilt due to the memory of their own battle against oppression – is able to connect emotionally with the plight of the slaves and is more likely to be moved to take a stand against slavery. His compelling description of slavery still resonates, Banneker offers a solution of equality. Like a wise and patient mentor teaching his student, Banneker proposes that society "put its soul into their souls" and promises that by doing so people will begin to adopt a sense of "kindness and benevolence." In other words, Banneker urges his audience to put themselves in the shoes of the slaves and look at the situation from the point of view of the oppressed. He supports his claim with religious allusions, for example, to how God created all humanity equal with an “impartial distribution of such rights and privileges.” While Banneker could have suggested a radical approach to ending slavery, he gently advises society to gradually accept slaves as human beings through a peaceful method of changing their nature. By justifying equality with religion, Banneker appeals to the religious members of his audience and convinces them to follow in God's footsteps and oppose slavery. Please note: this is just an example. Get a custom paper from our expert writers now. Get a Custom EssayThrough the use of description, exemplification, and solution to a problem, Banneker argues against the inhumane nature of slavery. By appealing to their moral sense with historical references, graphic images, and religious allusions, Banneker's letter exerted a powerful influence in persuading people to join the abolitionist cause. Works Cited Banneker, B. (1791). Letter from Benjamin.