Denmark Vesey Conspiracy Uncovered in Charleston

Denmark Vesey, a formerly enslaved carpenter who bought his freedom, organized what authorities claimed was a mass revolt in Charleston, SC involving up to 9,000 people. The plot was betrayed by enslaved informers Devany and Peter Prioleau in May 1822. A special court tried 131 people; 35 were hanged including Vesey on July 2. White Charleston was convulsed with terror.