“Uncle Tom’s Cabin,” written by Harriet Beecher Stowe in 1852, has been a subject of controversy for its portrayal of African Americans and the institution of slavery. While the novel played a significant role in the anti-slavery movement, it has also been criticized for perpetuating racial stereotypes.

The novel has been scrutinized for creating stereotypes that continue to affect Black Americans. Stowe’s character, Uncle Tom, is seen by some as a symbol of passivity and subservience to white people, which contrasts with her intention of portraying him as a figure of faith and resilience

At the time of its publication, the novel was criticized by some whites who thought Stowe’s portrayal of black characters was too positive, and later by black critics who believed these characters were oversimplified and stereotypical.

The controversy surrounding “Uncle Tom’s Cabin” reflects the evolving understanding of racial representation and the impact of literature on societal views. It remains a significant work for its historical context and its role in shaping American attitudes towards slavery and race

Harriet Beecher Stowe’s research for “Uncle Tom’s Cabin” was extensive and multifaceted. She drew from her personal experiences, the stories of formerly enslaved people, and anti-slavery literature.

Stowe was born into a family that held strong abolitionist beliefs. Her experiences and the discussions she had within her community provided a foundation for her understanding of slavery.

Stowe conducted interviews with people who had escaped slavery, gathering firsthand accounts of their experiences.

She used existing anti-slavery literature as part of her research. One significant work she drew from was “American Slavery as It Is: Testimony of a Thousand Witnesses,” co-authored by Theodore Dwight Weld and the Grimké sisters.

Through her novel, Stowe aimed to vividly dramatize the experience of slavery and influence the attitudes of her readers towards African Americans and the institution of slavery itself. Her work contributed significantly to the abolitionist movement and remains a landmark piece of American literature.