 
In Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, members of the Continental Congress sign the Declaration of Independence.
1776
In Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the Society of Friends, also known as the Quakers, forbids its members from holding slaves.
1776
Delaware prohibits the importation of African slaves.
1777
Vermont is the first of the thirteen colonies to abolish slavery and enfranchise all adult males.
1777
New York enfranchises all free propertied men regardless of color or prior servitude.
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1778
Rhode Island forbids the removal of slaves from the state.
1778
Virginia prohibits the importation of slaves.
1780
Delaware makes it illegal to enslave imported Africans.
1780
Pennsylvania begins gradual emancipation.
1780
A freedom clause in the Massachusetts constitution is interpreted as an abolishment of slavery. Massachusetts enfranchises all men regardless of race.
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