I can speak of Slavery only so far as it came under my own observation – only so far as I have known and experienced it in my own person.
-- Solomon Northup (Chapter 1 paragraph 3)

Importance: Solomon Northup's purpose in crafting a memoir of his time spent in bondage is underscored by two important points. First, he will speak freely about slavery as he has experienced. Second, he will not speak about slavery that he has not experienced. That way he can give an accurate account of his own experience, and of slavery as experienced personally by him.

James H. Burch was a slave trader – buying men, women and children at low prices, and selling them at an advance. He was a speculator in human flesh – a disreputable calling – and so considered at the South.
-- Solomon Northup (Chapter 4 paragraph 29)

Importance: When it comes to rendering moral judgments, Solomon Northup does not hold back. This is especially true of the cruel and malicious...