Here's why:
* Uncompromising stance: Garrison was known for his uncompromising stance against slavery. He advocated for immediate emancipation without compensation for slave owners and saw no room for compromise with pro-slavery forces.
* The Liberator: He founded and edited the influential abolitionist newspaper The Liberator, which became a platform for radical abolitionist thought. The paper was highly critical of the government and the Constitution for its support of slavery.
* Moral imperative: Garrison believed that slavery was a moral abomination and that it was the duty of all Americans to work for its end. He wasn't afraid to denounce the Church for its support of slavery and even spoke out against the government's authority when it came to upholding the institution.
* Divisive figure: Garrison's radical views often made him a controversial figure even among abolitionists. His calls for immediate emancipation and his willingness to challenge the very foundations of American society alienated some who sought more gradual or politically palatable solutions.
Other radical abolitionists:
While Garrison is a prominent figure, other radical abolitionists who deserve mention include:
* Frederick Douglass: A former slave who became a powerful orator and writer.
* John Brown: A militant abolitionist who believed in violent resistance to slavery.
* Sojourner Truth: An eloquent speaker who used her personal experience as a slave to challenge the institution.
It's important to remember that the abolitionist movement was diverse and encompassed a wide range of perspectives and approaches. The label "radical" is often subjective and depends on the specific context and time period.