Virgin Islands History Month: General Buddhoe

The entire month of March is dedicated to the brave men and women who have sacrificed their lives to make certain that we enjoy the paradise we so dearly take for granted sometimes. General Buddhoe is one of our many heroes we would like to highlight because of his amazing contributions to Virgin Islands History. John Gottlieb or Moses Gottlieb who is known to the public as General Buddhoe led the slaves through the streets of Fredericksted to their freedom. Buddhoe was a free black who led the slaves rebellion on St. Croix in 1848. According to historians the Emancipation Proclamation serves as a crucial moment in Virgin Islands History. Messages were sent from Danish to Von Scholten requesting his presence. The slaves had enough and became hostile with threats to burn down the town. According to historians the General was only 28 years old at the time of the proclamation. July 3, 1848 was commemorated as Emancipation Day. He was a remarkable leader and this is why we honor him today in the town of Frederiksted. A statue of General Buddhoe blowing a conch shell can be seen displayed in the town of Frederiksted to honor him for all of his accomplishments and sacrifices.

Written by: Minoca A.

Pc: flickr.com

Info provided to complete the article by: Virgin Islands History.org, snwmf.com