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'American Rising': When Slaves Attacked New Orleans In January 1811, 500 armed slaves rose up from the plantations and set out to conquer the city of New Orleans. Host Guy Raz speaks with Daniel Rasmussen, author of the new book American Rising: The Untold Story of America's Largest Slave Revolt.

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'American Rising': When Slaves Attacked New Orleans

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'American Rising': When Slaves Attacked New Orleans

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The United States' largest slave uprising began in 1811, on a plantation 41 miles from New Orleans. AP/New York Public Library hide caption

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AP/New York Public Library

The United States' largest slave uprising began in 1811, on a plantation 41 miles from New Orleans.

AP/New York Public Library
American Uprising
By Daniel Rasmussen
Hardcover, 288 pages
Harper
List Price: $26.99

Read An Excerpt

Two hundred years ago this month, the elite in New Orleans were making their usual preparations for Mardi Gras. Plantation owners were planning all-night parties, and the women of the house were looking forward to elaborate masquerades and balls.

What they didn't know is while they were planning for their annual carnival festivities, their slaves were planning a little something of their own.

On one fateful night, 500 armed slaves rose up from the plantations and set out to conquer the city.

Weekend All Things Considered host Guy Raz talks with Daniel Rasmussen about the little-known events of the slave rebellion of 1811. Rasmussen is the author of the new book American Uprising: The Untold Story of America's largest Slave Revolt.

American Uprising
By Daniel Rasmussen

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American Uprising
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Daniel Rasmussen

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