Personal experiences: Brown grew up in a religious household and was exposed to the abolitionist movement from an early age. He was deeply affected by stories of the brutal treatment of enslaved individuals and felt a personal calling to fight against slavery.
Belief in equality: Brown believed that all human beings were created equal and that slavery violated this fundamental principle. He saw the abolition of slavery as a moral imperative and was willing to risk his own life to achieve it.
Influence of abolitionist leaders: Brown was inspired by the writings and speeches of prominent abolitionists such as William Lloyd Garrison, Frederick Douglass, and Wendell Phillips. He attended abolitionist meetings and events, which reinforced his commitment to the cause.
Failed political attempts: Brown had previously attempted to achieve political change through conventional means, such as running for public office and advocating for anti-slavery legislation. However, he became frustrated by the slow pace of progress and the lack of political will to address the issue of slavery. This may have further motivated him to take more radical action.
Religious beliefs: Brown's religious convictions played a significant role in his dedication to the abolitionist movement. He saw the fight against slavery as a religious duty and believed that he was divinely called to challenge and overthrow the system of slavery.
These factors, combined with Brown's personal traits, such as his courage, determination, and willingness to take risks, led him to dedicate his life to the abolition of slavery.