Gabriel Prosser

Gabriel (1776 – October 10, 1800), today commonly – if incorrectly – known as Gabriel Prosser, is a literate enslaved blacksmith who plans a large slave rebellion in the Richmond area in the summer of 1800.

Information regarding the revolt is leaked prior to its execution, and he and twenty-five followers are taken captive and hanged in punishment.

In reaction, Virginia and other state legislatures pass restrictions on free blacks, as well as prohibiting the education, assembly and hiring out of slaves, to restrict their chances to learn and to plan similar rebellions.

In 2002 the City of Richmond passed a resolution in honor of Gabriel on the 202nd anniversary of the rebellion.

In 2007 Governor Tim Kaine gave Gabriel and his followers an informal pardon, in recognition that his cause, "the end of slavery and the furtherance of equality for all people – has prevailed in the light of history."

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