Oregon Secretary of State

​​​​​​​​

Black History Context

1846 map of the Oregon Country after the treaty with Great Britain.
Oregon Country in 1846 after the treaty with Great Britain setting the northern border at the 49th parallel. Enlarge image

This exhibit section offers background information about trends and events that had significant effects on the lives of both Black slaves and free Black people in the United States generally and in Oregon from 1840 to 1870 and beyond.

Introduction

Slavery Summary

National and Oregon Chronology of Events

Later Developments

What's in a Name?

Who Could Marry?