The Denmark Vesey revolt is nearly forgotten because of this. Considering the resources that were available to Robertson, Denmark Vesey was well researched, and factual, without his own opinion showing through too much. For these thoughts he added in his own chapter "A Personal Conclusion.".
Due to the lack of information, Robertson's book acts as a sort of introduction to the story, leaving more to be desired. Whether or not there is very much more information about Denmark Vesey to refer to is debatable. Denmark Vesey was detailed in certain areas such as antebellum conditions and other generally known events of the time. It had a considerable lack of detail in the area of the actual plans of revolt, those involved, and other issues. .
Vesey took advantage of his situation after being freed from slavery, and educated himself. His intelligence and passion for abolishing slavery were the two key elements to his plans for revolt. The years 1820 - 1822 was the time period between Vesey's freedom and death. In these two years, Vesey called assemblies for the slaves and abolitionists, covering the meetings with "church gatherings." Here, he used religious and moral ideals to preach to those opposed to slavery. Denmark Vesey had a strong sense of idealism, and an aggressive spirit, which he used to persuade people into the rebellion. He preached a doctrine of a consciousness of and pride in the cultural and physical aspects of the African heritage. With this, he was able to attract large numbers of blacks and abolitionists to partake in an enthusiastic undertaking that was difficult and extremely risky.
Denmark Vesey and his recruits had cruel intentions for the city of Charleston. In their "church meetings," they planned to assassinate the governor and other highly elected state officials. They also intended to set the city on fire, and then murder the entire white population of the city, including women and children.
