在1800年代早期,美国殖民Society was formed to offer slaves and free blacks the opportunity to return to Africa. Promising slaves passage to Liberia and support in establishing new lives, the society hoped to provide a peaceful solution to slavery and racial conflict. Most African-Americans opposed the plan, but a few thousand did settle in Liberia. Many departed from the ports of Baltimore and Norfolk. A few black watermen paid extra to have their boats shipped to Africa with them.