In 1815 (after the abolition of the trade in African slaves, but prior to the abolition of slavery itself) the territory was inhabited by an increasing number of free blacks who petitioned for civil rights, and in 1818 their request was granted and free black men were permitted to vote, although they could still only vote for white landowners.
In 1815 (following the end of slavery trade, but before complete abolition) the territory was inhabited by a growing number of self-free blacks who petitioned for civil liberties, and in 1818 their request was granted and free black men were allowed to cast ballots, although they could still only vote for white property owners.