The Exodus Narrative in Antebellum America was repeatedly used in early American history. Both slaves and slaveowners used the traditional biblical story to not only form their respective identities but also to define their purpose in America. During the 19th century, slaveowners also used this narrative to explain their situation and give them a purpose. The slaveowners set themselves up as New Israel, the "Redeemer Nation". In this understanding, slaveowners were "to reach the pinnacle of perfection and to carry liberty and the gospel around the globe."