How did the abolition of slavery impact African American literature?

The abolition of slavery was the first time that African
American writers were read by a wide spread audience.  It was also the first time that a
large white audience was able to see the gifts of the African American abolitionist’s
ability to write.  African American writers were able to advocate against the cruelty of
slavery.

Frederick Augustus Washington Bailey was a good
writer and speech maker.  He had been a slave and he could give voice to the
people.

"that the children of slave women shall in all
cases follow the condition of their mothers"