State v. Mann

    It is important to understand that as a slave in this time, you aren't given much room for error.  Lydia learned this the hard way.  While we all feel for Lydia and can understand why she would make the decisions she did, we need to understand that these decisions come with risks  The famous case State v. Mann was born and has an impactful meaning.  John Mann won this case, and he won it for a reason.  

    Lydia was frustrated with what was going on and showed that in her emotions.  This had John Mann very angry because he believes she should go with the flow and do what he says.  He decides to punish her by whipping her.  In his mind this will fix whatever problems she has.  As he is trying to punish her, she tries to escape.  Obviously John Mann doesn’t like this so he attempts to yell at her and try to get her to stop.  After this verbal attempt fails he decides there is no other way to stop her so he decides to shoot her.  While these acts are violent, you have to look at the time period and understand the way things were.  Back in this time period it was understood what is expected from you as a slave, and it was understood how you would be treated and punished if you were out of line.  Lydia chose to take the risk of escaping, and she understood this was a risk.  She took the risk and John Mann made the decision that most slave owners would have in that situation. 

    John Mann cannot be punished for holding her accountable.  As an owner of a slave he is in charge of controlling and monitoring the progress of his slave.  John Manns profits came from his slave owning, should a man be punished for trying to make a living?  Is it fair to try and get in between a man and his pay?  Lydia knew this and still made the decisions she did and the result is the result.  

    As a result I think John Mann is innocent and should not be punished or scrutinized for the reasons I have stated above.