1. Slavery
Africa to the New World

2. Nature of Slavery within African Societies
Natural part of African society
In West Africa, system of slavery resembled European feudalism
Slaves were used to increase production and population of region = more power
Seen more as resource, rather than trade commodity

3. Treatment of Slaves within African Societies
Generally, slaves were well treated
While low in hierarchy, active contributor to kingdom or community
Some held high positions with significant responsibility
Accepted by and lived with non-slaves in family settings

4. Islamic Traders
Conquest of North Africa by Muslims expanded slavery in Africa
Harsh interpretations of Islamic law justified enslavement of non-Muslims
Islamic traders exported slaves from 8th through 19th century

5. European Background Portuguese started African slave trade in 1441
First Africans in Hispaniola in 1505
~12 million Africans sent to Americas

8. Triangular Trade Slaves carried to Americas
Sugar, tobacco, and other goods carried to Europe
European products (cloth, firearms) sent to coast of Africa for slaves to begin triangle trade again

9. Triangular Trade

10. Why Africans? No written language, many languages
Native Americans dying off
No muskets and gunpowder
Africans participated in trade by enslaving others, selling debtors and criminals, and kidnapping
Picture: Cape Coast Castle, W. Africa

11. Justification Slavery made development of New World profitable
Native American slaves died of diseases, escaped easily
African tribes needed weapons and supplies from Europe

12. Exportation Trip called Middle Passage 5000 miles, 3 weeks to 3 months
20-25% died
Strip Africans’ self respect and self identity

14. Effects Focus on men affected male/female ratios
During slave trade, African population overall increases - why?
African nations collapsed and were formed
Slavery finally considered immoral

15. The End 1807—Britain outlawed slave trade 1808—US outlawed slave trade
1833 —Britain outlawed slavery
1863—US outlawed slavery
1888—Brazil outlawed slavery
John Newton
William Wilberforce

16. Amazing Grace John Newton
Amazing grace! (how sweet the sound) That sav’d a wretch like me! I once was lost, but now am found, Was blind, but now I see.
’Twas grace that taught my heart to fear, And grace my fears reliev’d; How precious did that grace appear, The hour I first believ’d!
The Lord has promis’d good to me, His word my hope secures; He will my shield and portion be, As long as life endures.

17. Slavery
Africa to the New World