John The Conqueror

By Crusader1307

A long forgotten feature among African-American Folk Lore, is the Tale of John The Conqueror. Although no true historical documentation will ever be found to identify a ‘’real’’ John, His Tales is seen as nothing more than ‘’oral folklore’’ and a story meant to inspire. According to the oldest myths, John was a Prince in Africa, when He was captured by Slavers (when Hunting). He was sold in America as a Slave, but was a constant problem for His Owners. John was – you see – Royalty and quite ‘’regal’’ in stature and speech. Because He was no ‘’mere Slave’’, He was constantly looking for way to out smart His Master and to play tricks on Him. Many of these ‘’tricks’’ were additionally stories told by Slaves to show that Their Masters were ‘’not as smart’’ as They made themselves out to be. Before John died, He stated that if ever His People ‘’needed Him’’, They had to only call His name and He would reappear (as per the Legend). A type of plant, known as a ‘’John The Carpenter Root’’ is said to ‘’heal’’ various wounds – almost overnight (but this may actually be some form of Aloe Vera species in reality). In some parts of The American South, He was also known as ‘’High John’’, and features in various Louisiana Folk Magic Beliefs as a powerful Voodoo Loa.