In an era of harsh realities and increasing sectionalism, Frederick Douglass and Harriet Jacobs stood out amid the controversy in what came to be one of the most significant periods in American history. The former slaves' incredible first hand accounts shed light on the long disregarded atrocities that plagued Southern Antebellum Society. Douglass and Jacobs recount the infectious characteristics that corrupted the slavery system and set out to expose the truth. The narratives were aimed to raise awareness in the North and inform those who had been previously misled. Many Northerners were not aware of how terribly slaves were actually treated and to reveal what had been covered up was essential in order to gain support. For the system of slavery to be successful owners resorted to dehumanizing and violent means in an attempt to crush morale and prevent disobedience. The simple fact that Jacobs and Douglas could lead such a campaign challenged the common contention of black inferiority and came to be known as pioneers in the fight for social justice