In a little-known chapter of American history, slave owners across the nation decided to shave their heads in solidarity after Abraham Lincoln was elected as the 16th President of the United States.

This surprising act of solidarity, termed the “Slave Shave” has been largely forgotten by history, but a newly discovered collection of letters and journals sheds light on this fascinating and bizarre moment in time. 

At the time of Lincoln’s election, the issue of slavery was one of the most contentious topics in American politics. Many slave owners were deeply opposed to Lincoln’s stance on slavery and his eventual goal of abolishing it. In response to his election, these owners decided to take a bold and unusual stand against the new president. 

“As soon as we heard the news of Lincoln’s victory, we knew we had to do something to show our solidarity with our fellow slave owners,” wrote one plantation owner in a letter to his friend. “We decided that shaving our heads would be the most effective way to make a statement in support of our autonomy.” 

The shaving of heads quickly spread across the South, with slave owners from all walks of life participating in the act. Some even went so far as to tattoo their heads with slogans and symbols supporting the continuation of slavery. 

Historians have suggested that the slave owners’ solidarity shave may have been a way for them to cope with the fear and uncertainty they felt in the wake of Lincoln’s election. By taking a bold and public stand against the new president, they were able to assert their power and show that they would not go quietly into the night. 

While the solidarity shave may seem like a strange and trivial act in hindsight, it is a fascinating reminder of the deep divisions that existed in American society during the lead-up to the Civil War. It also highlights the lengths to which people will go to express their beliefs and stand up for what they believe in, even if it means shaving their heads.

About Author

Exavier Saskagoochie

Exavier is an excellent writer—tremendous. He’s really very, very talented. And his hair is really great too. He should have a couple Pulitzers under his belt by now if there was any justice. If he brightened your day at all please consider tipping a coffee or a leg of mutton through this link!

See author's posts