thesis question about slavery

Slavery Research Paper Topics

Explore the rich history of slavery through our comprehensive guide on slavery research paper topics . This page is designed for history students seeking in-depth insights into various aspects of slavery, including ancient, medieval, Islamic, and modern periods. We present an extensive list of slavery research paper topics categorized into 10 sections, each comprising 10 thought-provoking topics. Additionally, our article on slavery delves into the historical context, impact, and legacies of slavery, offering students a broad perspective for their research endeavors. Furthermore, we provide valuable tips on selecting and crafting compelling research paper topics on slavery, empowering students to develop well-structured and impactful papers. To support students in their academic journey, iResearchNet offers specialized writing services, featuring expert degree-holding writers, in-depth research, and customized solutions. Embrace the opportunity to excel in your history studies!

100 Slavery Research Paper Topics

In the annals of history, few topics have been as impactful and poignant as the institution of slavery. From ancient civilizations to modern societies, slavery has left an indelible mark on humanity, shaping economies, societies, and cultures throughout the ages. For students of history, delving into the complexities of slavery through research papers offers a unique opportunity to explore this dark chapter of human history and its enduring legacies. In this comprehensive section, we present a curated list of slavery research paper topics, meticulously organized into 10 categories, each encompassing 10 diverse and thought-provoking subjects. Our aim is to provide students with a wide array of historical themes and perspectives, covering ancient slavery, medieval slavery, Islamic slavery, slavery in the United States, modern slavery, slavery and human rights, slavery and economics, slavery and social movements, slavery and cultural impact, and slavery and historical memory. As we embark on this journey, we seek to foster a deeper understanding of the complex dynamics of slavery and its profound implications on the past, present, and future.

Academic Writing, Editing, Proofreading, And Problem Solving Services

Get 10% off with 24start discount code.

The Role of Slavery in Ancient Civilizations: A Comparative Study
Slavery in Ancient Greece: Social and Economic Impact
Roman Slavery: From Captives to Household Servants
Slavery in Ancient Egypt: Labor and Society
Slavery in Mesopotamia: Legal Framework and Rights of Enslaved Individuals
Slavery in Ancient China: Patterns of Enslavement and Liberation
The Status of Slaves in Pre-Colonial Africa: A Case Study
Slavery in the Indus Valley Civilization: Evidence and Interpretations
The Treatment of Slaves in the Aztec Empire: Perspectives and Challenges
Slavery in the Mayan Civilization: Myths and Reality
Serfdom and Slavery in Medieval Europe: A Comparative Analysis
Slave Trade in the Byzantine Empire: Routes and Impact
Slavery in the Islamic Caliphates: Legal and Social Dimensions
The Role of Slavery in Feudal Japan: Samurai and Peasants
Slavery in Medieval China: Institutions and Reforms
The Slave Trade in Medieval Africa: Regional Variations and Consequences
Enslavement in the Viking Age: Raiding and Slave Markets
Slavery in the Middle Ages: Church, State, and Social Norms
The Experience of Slaves in Medieval Persia: Stories and Perspectives
Slave Revolts and Resistance in the Medieval World: Causes and Outcomes
Islamic Slavery and the Trans-Saharan Trade: Connections and Implications
The Role of Slavery in the Ottoman Empire: Administration and Abolition
Slavery in the Mamluk Sultanate: Military and Economic Contributions
The Treatment of Slaves in Medieval Islamic Society: Rights and Restrictions
Female Slaves in the Islamic World: Roles and Perceptions
Slavery in Medieval India: Influence of Islamic and Hindu Traditions
The African Slave Trade in the Indian Ocean: Trade Routes and Networks
Slavery and Conversion to Islam: Examining the Impact on Enslaved Individuals
The Experience of African Slaves in the Arab World: Cultural Identity and Resistance
Slavery in the Maldives: Local Practices and Global Influences
Slavery in the Southern Colonies: Labor Systems and Plantation Life
The Experience of Enslaved Individuals in the Northern States: Urban vs. Rural
Slave Trade and the Middle Passage: Trauma and Survival
The Role of Free Blacks in the Antebellum South: Rights and Restrictions
The Underground Railroad in the United States: Networks and Abolitionist Activity
Slavery and Indigenous Peoples: Interactions and Conflicts
The Economic Impact of Slavery on the United States: Cotton, Tobacco, and Beyond
Slavery and the US Constitution: Legal Framework and Political Debates
Slavery and the American Legal System: Court Cases and Precedents
The Legacy of Slavery in US Society: Racial Inequality and Systemic Racism
Slavery in the United States: From Colonial Times to the Civil War
The Abolitionist Movement in the United States: Key Figures and Campaigns
The Underground Railroad: Escaping Slavery and Freedom Seekers
Slavery and the American Civil War: Causes, Consequences, and Legacies
Slavery in Latin America: Plantations, Labor Systems, and Resistance
The British Abolition of the Slave Trade: Policy and Impact
The Transatlantic Slave Trade: Origins, Scale, and Aftermath
Slavery in the Caribbean: Plantation Economies and Cultural Heritage
The Impact of Slavery on African Societies: Continuity and Change
Modern-Day Slavery: Human Trafficking and Forced Labor in the 21st Century
Slavery and International Law: From Condemnation to Enforcement
The Role of Slavery in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights
Slavery Reparations: Historical Injustices and Contemporary Debates
The Legacies of Slavery: Intergenerational Trauma and Healing
The Fight for Abolition: Social Movements and Civil Rights Activism
Slavery in Modern Literature: Representation and Cultural Memory
The Impact of Slavery on Identity and Belonging: Descendants of Enslaved Individuals
Modern Slavery and Global Supply Chains: Corporate Responsibility and Accountability
The Role of Museums and Memorials in Preserving Slavery’s History
Slavery and Memory Studies: Commemoration and Remembrance
The Economics of Slavery: Plantations, Labor, and Capital Accumulation
The Impact of Slavery on Economic Development: Case Studies and Perspectives
Slavery and Trade Routes: The Triangular Trade and Its Consequences
Slavery and Industrialization: Labor Systems and Technological Advances
Slavery and Urbanization: The Role of Enslaved Individuals in Building Cities
The Economic Justifications for Slavery: Historical Debates and Perspectives
Slavery and Wealth Inequality: Historical and Contemporary Patterns
Slavery and Globalization: Connections and Disparities
The Role of Slave Labor in Building Infrastructures: Roads, Canals, and Railways
Slavery and Economic Migration: The Movement of Enslaved Individuals
Slave Revolts and Rebellions: Causes, Strategies, and Outcomes
Abolitionist Literature: Narratives of Freedom and Empowerment
The Role of Religion in the Abolitionist Movement: Faith and Advocacy
The Underground Railroad and Its Impact on African American Communities
Slavery and Women’s Rights: Intersectionality and Activism
The Role of Free African Americans in the Abolitionist Movement
Slave Songs and Music: Expressions of Resistance and Identity
Slave Codes and Laws: The Legal Framework of Enslavement
Slavery and Education: Restrictions, Access, and Agency
The Role of International Diplomacy in Abolitionist Efforts
Slavery in Art and Literature: Representations and Interpretations
The Influence of African Cultures on Slave Communities
Slavery and Memory in Visual Culture: Museums, Monuments, and Memorials
The Impact of Slave Narratives on Cultural Awareness and Empathy
Slavery in Folklore and Oral Traditions: Stories of Survival and Resilience
Slavery and Music: Contributions of Enslaved Africans to American Music
The Legacy of Slavery in Language and Linguistics: Words and Expressions
Slavery and Food: Culinary Traditions and Adaptations
The Representation of Slavery in Films and Media: Stereotypes and Revisionist Narratives
Slavery’s Influence on Fashion and Clothing: Textiles and Identity
The Politics of Memory: Commemorating and Memorializing Slavery
Slavery and Public History: Interpretation and Controversies
The Role of Confederate Monuments in Shaping Historical Narratives
Slavery and Heritage Tourism: Ethics and Responsibilities
The Memory of Slavery in African American Communities: Cultural Expressions
The Debate over Confederate Symbols and Names: Renaming and Removals
Slavery and Education: Teaching Difficult Histories in Schools
The Role of Historical Reenactments in Representing Slavery
Slavery in Family Histories: Genealogy and Ancestral Connections
The Future of Slavery Studies: Research Directions and Challenges

This comprehensive list of slavery research paper topics serves as a gateway for students to explore the multifaceted dimensions of slavery across different epochs and societies. From ancient civilizations to the present day, slavery has been a pervasive and deeply troubling institution that has shaped human history in profound ways. By examining these carefully selected topics, students can gain a deeper appreciation for the historical, social, economic, and cultural complexities surrounding slavery. Moreover, delving into these research paper ideas opens avenues for critical thinking, fostering empathy, and raising awareness about the enduring legacy of slavery in contemporary society. As we engage with these slavery research paper topics, it is crucial to approach them with sensitivity and a commitment to shedding light on the human experience, even in the darkest chapters of history.

Slavery: Exploring the History, Impact, and Legacies

Slavery stands as a harrowing chapter in human history, marked by its profound impact on societies, economies, and the lives of countless individuals. This article delves into the complex and troubling history of slavery, tracing its origins, evolution, and far-reaching consequences on both local and global scales. Additionally, it sheds light on the enduring legacies of slavery, as its shadows continue to cast a long and influential reach into the modern world. By examining the historical context of slavery and its multifaceted impact, we can better understand the challenges faced by enslaved people and the enduring repercussions felt across generations and continents.

The Origins of Slavery: Tracing the Roots

The history of slavery can be traced back to ancient civilizations, where individuals were subjected to forced labor and bondage. Exploring the origins of slavery illuminates the early forms of human exploitation and the development of slave systems in various societies, from Mesopotamia and Egypt to Greece and Rome. Understanding the earliest manifestations of slavery helps contextualize its transformation over time and its role in shaping societies.

Slavery in Medieval Times: Continuity and Change

As the world transitioned into the medieval period, the institution of slavery adapted and persisted. This topic examines the continuity of slavery in medieval Europe, Africa, and Asia, and delves into the changes and variations that occurred during this era. The rise of serfdom, indentured servitude, and chattel slavery all played significant roles in shaping the medieval world’s social, economic, and political landscape.

Islamic Slavery: Unraveling the Narrative

Islamic history also saw the presence of slavery, with a diverse range of experiences and practices within the Islamic world. This section explores the nuances of Islamic slavery, challenging misconceptions and providing a more nuanced understanding of its historical context. The discussion encompasses the role of slavery in Islamic societies, the treatment of enslaved people, and the Quranic teachings related to slavery.

Transatlantic Slave Trade: A Dark Era

One of the most infamous chapters in slavery’s history is the transatlantic slave trade, which forcibly transported millions of Africans to the Americas. This topic delves into the grim reality of the slave trade, analyzing its economic, social, and humanitarian ramifications. The harrowing journey of enslaved Africans, the brutal conditions of the Middle Passage, and the impacts on African societies are essential aspects of this exploration.

Slavery and Abolition Movements: Struggle for Freedom

The fight against slavery was met with resistance from enslaved individuals and abolition movements worldwide. This section examines the courageous efforts of abolitionists, enslaved rebels, and humanitarian activists in challenging the institution of slavery. The works of prominent figures such as Harriet Tubman, Frederick Douglass, William Wilberforce, and Sojourner Truth are exemplars of the determination to end slavery.

Impact on Culture and Identity

Slavery profoundly influenced the cultural fabric and identities of both enslaved and enslaving societies. This topic investigates how cultural expressions, traditions, and identities were shaped by the institution of slavery, leaving indelible marks on the collective consciousness. From African cultural retentions in the Americas to the enduring legacy of slavery in shaping national identities, this section delves into the power of culture in preserving and challenging the past.

Slavery’s Economic Legacy: Prosperity Built on Exploitation

The economic impact of slavery cannot be underestimated, as it fueled the growth of industries and economies in different regions. This section delves into the economic repercussions of slavery, exploring its role in the accumulation of wealth and its lasting influence on global trade. The exploitative labor practices that underpinned the economies of plantation-based societies and their connection to contemporary economic systems are crucial aspects of this examination.

The Long Road to Emancipation: Legacies of Struggle

Even after the abolition of slavery, the legacy of oppression persisted through segregation, Jim Crow laws, and systemic racism. This topic examines the legacies of slavery’s aftermath and the ongoing struggles for equality and justice. The Civil Rights Movement in the United States and similar movements worldwide demonstrate the enduring efforts to dismantle the structures of racism and discrimination.

Slavery in the US: A Tumultuous History

Focusing on the United States, this category explores the unique history of slavery in the nation. From its early colonial beginnings to the Civil War and beyond, the United States grappled with the profound impact of slavery on its development. Examining slave narratives, the Underground Railroad, and the Emancipation Proclamation, this section highlights the complexities of slavery’s legacy in the US.

Slavery in the Modern World: Contemporary Forms of Exploitation

Despite its historical abolition, slavery has not been eradicated entirely. Modern slavery, including human trafficking and forced labor, continues to affect millions worldwide. This section sheds light on the modern manifestations of slavery and the challenges of combating this global issue. The examination includes efforts by international organizations, governments, and NGOs to address this ongoing human rights violation.

By examining these critical aspects of slavery, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the history, impact, and enduring legacies of this tragic institution. Through rigorous research and compassionate inquiry, we aim to honor the experiences of those who suffered under slavery while striving to create a more just and equitable world for all.

How to Choose Slavery Research Paper Topics

Choosing slavery research paper topics requires thoughtful consideration and a deep understanding of the historical, social, and cultural complexities surrounding this dark period in human history. While the topic selection process can be challenging, it is essential to find a subject that not only interests you but also allows for a comprehensive exploration of the issues related to slavery. Here are ten tips to guide you in selecting the most compelling slavery research paper topics:

Conduct Preliminary Research : Before settling on a specific topic, conduct preliminary research to familiarize yourself with various aspects of slavery. Read books, scholarly articles, and historical accounts to gain insight into different angles and perspectives. This will help you identify gaps in the existing literature and potential areas for further exploration.
Define Your Scope : Given the vastness of the subject, it is crucial to define the scope of your research paper. Consider the time period, geographic location, and specific themes you want to delve into. Whether you choose to focus on a particular region, a specific era, or a comparative analysis of different slave systems, defining your scope will provide clarity and direction.
Explore Different Perspectives : Slavery has left an indelible mark on various societies and individuals. Consider exploring different perspectives, such as the experiences of enslaved individuals, the role of slaveholders, the impact on economies, and the cultural and social repercussions. This multi-faceted approach will enrich your research and foster a comprehensive understanding of the subject.
Select a Specific Theme or Question : Rather than opting for a broad topic, narrow down your focus by selecting a specific theme or research question. For instance, you could investigate the resistance strategies employed by enslaved people, the economic motivations behind the transatlantic slave trade, or the role of women in slave societies. A focused approach will allow for in-depth analysis and a more cohesive research paper.
Consult with Your Instructor or Advisor : If you are struggling to choose a research paper topic, don’t hesitate to seek guidance from your instructor or academic advisor. They can offer valuable insights, suggest potential slavery research paper topics, and provide feedback on the feasibility of your ideas.
Consider Understudied Topics : Exploring less-discussed or understudied topics can be a rewarding endeavor. Look for aspects of slavery that have not received as much scholarly attention and consider shedding light on these lesser-known areas. This can contribute to the broader understanding of the subject and make your research paper stand out.
Use Primary Sources : Incorporating primary sources in your research can add depth and authenticity to your paper. Letters, diaries, interviews, and official documents from the time of slavery provide firsthand accounts and perspectives, enriching your analysis and providing a more nuanced understanding of historical events.
Stay Ethical and Sensible : Slavery is a highly sensitive and traumatic subject. When choosing a research paper topic, ensure that you approach it with sensitivity and respect for the individuals who suffered under this institution. Avoid trivializing the experiences of enslaved people or using offensive language in your research.
Consider Comparative Studies : Comparing the experiences of enslaved people in different regions or exploring how slavery intersected with other historical events can yield fascinating insights. Comparative studies can highlight similarities and differences, providing a broader context for understanding the complexities of slavery.
Follow Your Passion : Ultimately, choose a slavery research paper topic that genuinely interests you. A passionate approach to your research will drive your motivation, commitment, and enthusiasm throughout the writing process. Embrace a topic that ignites your curiosity and allows you to make a meaningful contribution to the field of historical research.

In conclusion, selecting a research paper topic on slavery requires careful consideration of various factors, including scope, perspective, and sensitivity. By conducting thorough research and defining a focused theme or question, you can explore the depths of this complex historical period and contribute to a deeper understanding of the enduring legacies of slavery. Remember to seek guidance from your instructor, utilize primary sources, and stay passionate in your pursuit of knowledge. With these tips, you can embark on a compelling research journey that sheds light on the history, impact, and ongoing relevance of slavery in our world.

How to Write a Slavery Research Paper

Writing a slavery research paper requires careful planning, extensive research, and a thoughtful approach to address the complex historical, social, and cultural dimensions of this topic. Here are ten essential tips to guide you through the process of writing an engaging and well-structured slavery research paper:

Develop a Strong Thesis Statement : A compelling thesis statement is the foundation of your research paper. It should present a clear argument or claim that you will explore and support throughout your paper. Your thesis statement should be specific, concise, and indicative of the main focus of your research.
Conduct In-Depth Research : Thoroughly research your chosen topic using both primary and secondary sources. Primary sources include historical documents, letters, diaries, interviews, and other firsthand accounts from the time of slavery. Secondary sources encompass scholarly books, articles, and analyses that provide context and interpretations of historical events.
Organize Your Research : Organize your research material systematically to facilitate a coherent and logical structure for your paper. Create an outline that outlines the main sections and arguments you plan to cover. This will help you maintain a clear flow of ideas throughout your research paper.
Provide Historical Context : Begin your research paper by providing essential historical context. Explain the background of slavery, its origins, evolution, and global impact. Offer insights into the economic, social, and political forces that influenced the growth and sustenance of slavery in different regions.
Explore Various Perspectives : Dive into the multifaceted perspectives related to slavery. Consider the experiences of enslaved individuals, slaveholders, abolitionists, and the broader society. By exploring diverse viewpoints, you can present a well-rounded analysis of the complex issues surrounding slavery.
Analyze Primary Sources Critically : When using primary sources, analyze them critically to identify biases, gaps, and limitations. Interrogate the perspectives of the authors and the context in which the sources were created. Critical analysis of primary sources strengthens the authenticity and credibility of your research paper.
Utilize Comparative Analysis : Consider adopting a comparative approach to enrich your research. Compare and contrast different forms of slavery in various regions or analyze the impact of slavery on different social groups. Comparative analysis enhances the depth of your research and offers valuable insights.
Address the Legacy of Slavery : Acknowledge the ongoing implications of slavery in the modern world. Examine how slavery has shaped contemporary social, economic, and political structures. Addressing the legacy of slavery demonstrates the relevance of this historical topic in today’s society.
Cite Sources Properly : Ensure that you cite all your sources properly and adhere to the required citation style (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago). Accurate citation gives credit to the original authors, validates your research, and helps avoid plagiarism.
Revise and Edit Thoroughly : The final step is to revise and edit your research paper thoroughly. Review the content for coherence, clarity, and logical flow of ideas. Check for grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors. Consider seeking feedback from peers or instructors to gain different perspectives on your work.

In conclusion, writing a slavery research paper demands meticulous research, critical analysis, and careful consideration of the historical context and its impact on contemporary society. By developing a strong thesis statement, organizing your research, and exploring various perspectives, you can create an engaging and comprehensive research paper on this crucial aspect of human history. Remember to acknowledge the ongoing legacy of slavery and cite your sources accurately. With dedication and attention to detail, you can produce a research paper that sheds light on the complexities of slavery and its enduring significance.

iResearchNet’s Writing Services:

Your partner in slavery research papers.

At iResearchNet, we understand the importance of producing high-quality and comprehensive slavery research papers. Our writing services are designed to assist students in delving into the intricate historical narratives of slavery while presenting well-researched and thought-provoking papers that meet academic standards. As your dedicated partner in slavery research, we offer a range of features and benefits to ensure a seamless and rewarding experience.

Expert Degree-Holding Writers : Our team of writers consists of highly qualified experts with advanced degrees in history and related fields. They possess a deep understanding of slavery’s historical significance, allowing them to produce well-informed and authoritative research papers.
Custom Written Works : We recognize that each research paper is unique, and we tailor our writing services to meet your specific requirements. Our writers craft custom-written papers from scratch, ensuring originality and authenticity in every document.
In-Depth Research : Research is the foundation of any historical study, and our writers go the extra mile to conduct in-depth research using reputable sources, both primary and secondary. This comprehensive approach ensures the inclusion of valuable insights and evidence in your research paper.
Custom Formatting : Formatting a research paper in the appropriate citation style can be challenging. Rest assured, our writers are well-versed in various formatting styles, including APA, MLA, Chicago/Turabian, and Harvard. Your paper will adhere to the required guidelines and be formatted professionally.
Top Quality : Quality is our utmost priority. We maintain rigorous standards throughout the writing process, ensuring that your research paper reflects academic excellence and meticulous attention to detail.
Customized Solutions : Whether you need assistance with topic selection, research, or the entire writing process, our services are tailored to meet your specific needs. You have the freedom to choose the level of support that suits your requirements best.
Flexible Pricing : We understand the financial constraints faced by students. Our pricing structure is designed to be flexible and affordable, ensuring that you receive excellent value for your investment.
Short Deadlines : If you are facing tight deadlines, worry not. Our writers are skilled at working efficiently and can deliver high-quality research papers within short timeframes.
Timely Delivery : Punctuality is crucial in academic endeavors. With iResearchNet, you can expect your research paper to be delivered on time, allowing you to meet your submission deadlines without stress.
24/7 Support : Our customer support team is available 24/7 to address any queries or concerns you may have. We are here to provide prompt assistance and support at any stage of the writing process.
Absolute Privacy : We prioritize your privacy and ensure that all personal and transactional information is handled with utmost confidentiality.
Easy Order Tracking : Our user-friendly platform allows you to track the progress of your research paper easily. You can communicate directly with your assigned writer and stay updated throughout the writing process.
Money-Back Guarantee : Our commitment to customer satisfaction is unwavering. If you are not satisfied with the final paper, we offer a money-back guarantee, ensuring that you receive the quality you expect.

Partnering with iResearchNet means gaining access to a team of skilled professionals who are dedicated to helping you excel in your academic journey. Our comprehensive writing services will empower you to produce outstanding slavery research papers that demonstrate your passion for history, research, and critical analysis.

Through our expert guidance and support, you can confidently navigate the complexities of slavery research, engage with the historical narrative, and present well-crafted papers that contribute to a deeper understanding of this critical aspect of human history. Let iResearchNet be your trusted ally in unlocking the fascinating stories and legacies of slavery through your research papers.

Unleash Your Potential with iResearchNet’s Writing Services

Are you ready to embark on a transformative journey into the fascinating world of slavery research? iResearchNet is here to empower you with our comprehensive and reliable writing services, dedicated to supporting students like you in your academic pursuits. Unleash your potential as a history scholar by harnessing the expertise of our experienced writers and the wealth of resources at your disposal.

Now is the time to embrace the challenge of slavery research and make your mark as a historian. With iResearchNet’s writing services as your trusted partner, you have the tools, expertise, and support you need to excel in your academic endeavors. Unleash your potential and unlock the captivating stories of slavery with confidence and academic excellence.

Take the first step towards a rewarding academic journey today. Contact iResearchNet and allow us to be your partner in crafting exceptional slavery research papers that leave a lasting impact. Embrace the legacy of history and illuminate the narratives of the past through your insightful research and thought-provoking papers. Together, we will make history in the realm of slavery research.

ORDER HIGH QUALITY CUSTOM PAPER

American Revolution Topics Topics:
Declaration of Independence Topics Topics: 84
Revolutionary War Paper Topics Topics: 71
African American History Essay Topics Topics: 48
George Washington Essay Topics Topics: 82
Civil War Essay Topics Topics: 250
Civil Rights Movement Paper Topics Topics: 113
Alexander The Great Research Topics Topics: 60
French Revolution Paper Topics Topics: 104
Historical Figures Topics Topics: 376
Ancient History Topics Topics: 265
Roman Empire Paper Topics Topics: 122
Colonization Research Topics Topics: 137
Industrial Revolution Topics Topics: 147
Franklin Roosevelt Topics Topics: 95

203 Slavery Essay Topics

🏆 best essay topics on slavery, 👍 good slavery research topics & essay examples, 🔎 easy slavery research paper topics, 🎓 most interesting slavery research titles, 💡 simple slavery essay ideas, 🌶️ hot slavery ideas to write about, ❓ slavery research questions.

Toni Morrison’s Novel “Beloved”: Slavery Theme
The Machiavellianism Theory’s Application to Slavery
Slavery in “Parable of the Sower” by Octavia Butler
The History of Slavery: Impacts on Contemporary Society
The Theme of Slavery in Poetry
“Up from Slavery” by Booker T. Washington Analysis
Race and Slavery in the “Clotel” Novel by Brown
“The Escape, Or: A Leap for Freedom”, “Uncle Tom’s Cabin”: The Need for Social Action on Slavery Stowe and Brown wrote plays with different intentions, but both shared a single purpose – to convince their white audiences that the practice of slavery was an inhuman practice.
Slavery in the Novel “Satyricon” by Gaius Petronius The excellent Roman novel, Satyricon, by Gaius Petronius, offers modern readers a way to delve into the class structure in the twilight of Roman society by depicting characters from all levels.
The Sexual Abuse of Black Men Under American Slavery The thesis of this article is that violence has no face, race, or gender. The times of slavery left a large number of people disfigured and offended, including men.
Slavery in “Adventures of Huckleberry Finn” the Novel by Mark Twain Mark Twain was a true trailblazer of his era by writing a bold and courageous novel about the problems of slavery.
Human Trafficking – Modern-Day Slavery Modern-day slavery is one of the outcomes of globalization; it affects millions of people and brings immense revenue to the criminals.
Injustices Faced by African American People Since Slavery The paper states that African Americans experienced a great deal of racial discrimination, which diminished their confidence among whites.
Narrative of Henry Box Brown, Who Escaped from Slavery Henry Brown was born in Louisa County, Virginia, in 1816 and became known as Henry “Box” Brown after the box he used to escape slavery.
Slavery and Human Rights Violation The work presents three stories from various time periods and places, but they are common in the fact that, due to greed, some people are ready to sacrifice all human qualities.
Comparison of the Slavery Systems in Ancient Rome and Ottoman This research defines how slavery was carried out in the two empires and compares and contrasts some of the activities that were involved in the practice of slavery in the two empires.
Economics and Slavery in Frederick Douglass’ Narrative This work discusses Frederick Douglass’s Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, An American Slave and the author’s view on the way economics affects slavery.
Haratins: Slavery in Mauritania Yesterday and Today The article provides a detailed analysis of how the situation with slavery in Mauritania has changed over time and how things are now.
The Slavery Debate Between 1820 and 1850 The work is aimed to provide a historical overview of the slavery debate between 1820 and 1850, which meant the conflict between North and South of the USA.
Gender Dynamics in American Slavery This study explores the gendered experiences of slavery in the US, highlighting the challenges faced by women in daily life.
Indentured Servitude and Slavery in the American Colonies The main difference between indentured servitude and slavery in the American colonies was the duration of service.
Slavery’s Legacy in Kindred by Octavia Butler “Kindred” offers a thought-provoking perspective on the complexities of slavery. Octavia Butler examines power, control, and the ramifications of one’s choices in chapters 7 and 8.
Pre-Civil War Slavery and Black Women The pressing issue of enslavement of African-American individuals had been apparent in the United States for a long time.
Whigs’ vs. Democrats’ Views on Slavery and Race The political life of America in the 1830s – early 1850s was largely determined by the rivalry between Whigs and Democrats.
How the White Southerners Justified Slavery White Southerners are thriving members of the society living in the Southern parts of the USA. Typical white southerners were yeomen who cultivated small portions of land.
Slavery Experiences Depicted in Primary Documents Women were among the most vulnerable slaves who suffered from psychological and physical torture during slavery.
Slavery in The American South: Slavery and Southern Society Many masters did not provide a comfortable life for their slaves. Black people were often exploited and sold into slavery in the American South.
The History of African American Slavery The fact that African Americans were taken captive and brought to America as enslaved gave them an unfair start in the country.
The Phenomenon of Slavery and Its Abolition The paper states that revolutions and amendments ensured the actualization of the abolition of slavery and created equality between the various races.
The Invention of the Cotton Gin and Its Impact on Slavery The invention of the cotton gin in the US allowed the planters to increase production, which led to a dramatic increase in the number of slaves working in the fields.
African Kingdoms, Atlantic Slave Trade, and New World Slavery The connections between African kingdoms, the Atlantic slave trade, and the new world slavery are shown in this paper.
The American Yawp: Poking the Slavery Epoch This paper examines the troubling history of slavery in the US and the justifications used by American elites to perpetuate racial subjugation and enslavement of Africans.
Women’s Rights, Abolition of Slavery, and Nationalism in the US This paper examines such important events in the US history as women’s rights convention, the abolition of slavery, and nationalism development.
Slavery and Democracy in the United States On the road to progress and enlightenment, virtually all races have resorted to such a terrible form of social development as slavery.
The Ideas and Perspectives of Literary Works About Slavery and Racism The essay aims to provide insights into opinions about the ideas and perspectives of literary works about slavery, racism, and the oppression of African-Americans.
The Reconstruction Amendments: Abolishing Slavery The current paper states that the Reconstruction Amendments aimed to protect rights by abolishing slavery and involuntary servitude.
Slavery as a Human Rights Issue The paper argues slavery in underdeveloped countries, especially Africa, continues to be a pressing and contemporary problem.
The Haitian Revolution and Slavery The Haitian Revolution is intertwined with the ideas of enslaved people’s desires for freedom, social justice, and equity.
The Impact of Slavery on Society Slavery is a tragedy in human history due to its cruel barbarism, scale, organized nature, and denial of the victims’ essence.
Frederick Douglass’ Illustrations Concerning Slavery Frederick Douglass provides insightful and educative illustrations concerning slavery and its severe negative impacts that suggest that it should be eradicated.
Racial Ideology and Slavery in the United States This paper examines the concept of race and how previous racial ideologies contributed to the expansion of racial slavery in the United States.
Historical and Modern-Day Slavery In this paper, the concept of modern-day and historical slavery will be compared and contrasted, exemplifying the similarities between the notions.
Westward Migration and Expansion of Slavery The Westward expansion began in 1803 with the purchase of land that doubled the territory of the United States. The Louisiana purchase sparked the interest of Americans.
Civilizations and Their Thinkers’ Views on the Subject of Slavery Different people throughout the years had different views on slavery, and depending on their living conditions, philosophy, and ideas, their treatment of slaves changed.
The History of Slavery Impact Analysis The history of slavery is one of the most complex and debated topics in modern research because the issue of human trafficking and enslavement is still relevant.
Analysis of Slavery and Resistance Slavery was the most abhorrent practice in both American and world history because violated every connotation and notion of human decency, right, freedom, and justice.
The Abolition of American Cotton Slavery The abolition of slavery became possible and necessary as America’s cotton monopoly met intense competition from India, Egypt, Brazil, and other countries.
Civil War: The Legacy in Ending Slavery The Civil War was among the worst wars that happened in America. However, it also left a legacy that caused the ending of slavery.
New World Slavery and Racism in Society The effects of slavery and racial ideology can be observed even after the official abolition of this policy. There is racial discrimination in labor and health care.
The Struggle Against Slavery Was for All The paper indicates that the fight against slavery was a fight for humanity that took a long but eventually bore incredible fruits.
Supply Chain Slavery and Exploitation Modern-day slavery is no different from the historic term due to similarities when it comes to exploitation, abuse, and entrapment of vulnerable individuals.
Slavery in the American Colonies This paper aims to discuss the institution of slavery established in the American colonies and the impact of the American revolution on slavery.
American History: Reconstruction Era, Slavery, Indian Wars This period was characterized by attempts to rectify the inequities of slavery and its political, social and economic legacy left by the American Civil War.
Slavery in the Texas: Declaration of Causes and Address by Sam Houston The first document under review is titled “Texas Declaration of Causes”. This piece of writing represents an account of the grudge.
African American Slavery in Case of Harriet Jacobs This paper reviews life for Harriet Jacobs and other slaves, how African Americans were treated, and how Harriet Jacobs and other slaves coped with the bondage.
Haiti’s and Cuba’s Independence Movement and Slavery The independence movements in Latin America and the Caribbean, as can be seen from the Cuban and Haitian experiences, were mostly guided by the problem of slavery.
Slavery and Racism: History and Linkage Slavery has changed over time; this institution in the ancient world was different from its modern forms; in particular, the Atlantic slave trade added a racial aspect to it.
Stowe and Douglass’s Depiction of Slavery In this work, the messages of “Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass” and “Uncle Tom’s Cabin” will be discussed.
History of African American Slavery Before the introduction of the slave trade, Africans who lived in West Africa had diverse and rich histories of their culture.
Slavery Abolishment and Underlying Reasons We should understand the value of human life, and liberating slaves will permit the States to advance as a country with high ethics and solid equity.
Slavery: The Interesting Narrative of the Life of Olaudah Equiano “The Interesting Narrative of the Life of Olaudah Equiano” depicts and illustrates the author’s life and his journey from being a slave to becoming a free and independent man.
The Role of Religion in Propping-Up Slavery The article discusses that Christianity and its principles contributed to the propping up of the slavery system.
What Is More Impactful: Freedom or Slavery? In modernity, the history of slavery in the United States can primarily be contextualized as the history of abolition.
Slavery in Colonial America The paper discusses slavery. It is different from indentured servitude in many aspects. It was widely spread in many regions of Colonial America.
Slavery in Narrative of the Life of Fredrick Douglass Fredrick Douglas is one of the most famous Afro-American leaders of the XIX century. He was an abolitionist and one of the main figures of the anti-slavery movement in the USA.
Disposable People: New Slavery in the Global Economy and Tsotsi The movie’s message tells the viewer that there are many children like this, and there are many of Tsotsi nowadays.
Slavery as a Part of America’s History More than two centuries of American history were overshadowed by such a terrible phenomenon as slavery when people were divided into white and black.
Indentured Servitude and Slavery in Virginia in the 1600s The paper indicates that indentured servitude and slavery possessed different connotations for individuals in Virginia in the 1600s.
James Baldwin’s Essays on Racism and Slavery By studying Baldwin’s reflection on the nature of racism, its link to slavery, and its traces in the American community, one can understand the nature of modern racism.
Hard Questions About Living in Poverty or Slavery The paper aims to find the answers to several questions, for example, how to remain human while living in the conditions of extreme poverty or slavery.
Post-Slavery African-American Exploitation The central theme of the paper is the oppressive laws adopted in the southern states after the abolition of slavery.
The Abolition of Slavery After the Civil War This essay covers topics directly addressing the racial problems from Reconstruction when the civil war between the North and the South pushed society to critical changes.
Dew’s View of Slavery: Debate in the Virginia Legislature “Review of the Debate in the Virginia Legislature of 1831 and 1832” argues that the New Testament not only justifies slavery but even encourages it.
DuBois’ and Tocqueville’s Perspective on Legacy of Slavery The plight for equal rights for racial and ethnic minorities has been one of the most long-standing issues in world history, with the history of slavery in the U.S.
Indentured Servitude and Slavery: Similarities and Differences The current paper aims to discuss indentured servants and slaves. They were brought from outside America to work in plantations in the colony.
Features of Slavery in South America Slavery was crucial in creating the Southern mentality and worldview and significantly formed the social background.
The Significant Events Leading to the End of Slavery This essay looks at some of the significant events leading to the end of slavery by reviewing David Wyatt’s opinion on how slavery died out according to history.
Slavery and the Civil War: Reasons and Outcomes Slavery stressed the issue of freedom in America and led to effective national changes in its legislation, economy, policy, and social structure.
Slavery vs. Indentured Servitude The paper explains how and why slavery developed in the American colonies and describes how the practice of slavery differed between each colonial region.
From Slavery to Racism: Historical Background Racism did not spur slavery or encourage it; instead, it was used to justify a phenomenon that would exist nonetheless due to the economic situation in the world at the time.
Slavery and Slaves in the United States of America The article analyzes the Garnet speech where he proclaimed the time for slaves to start fighting for justice and freedom for the sake of past and future generations.
Slavery and Discrimination: The Foundations of the Problem This work explores the roots of the slavery problem and raises the question of whether discrimination would be so intense in the modern world if only white people were slaves.
Narrative of the Life of Fredrick Douglass: Slavery and Christianity Douglass distinguishes between the truthful and hypocritical versions of Christianity. He demonstrates how the slaveholders’ beliefs do not adhere to religious doctrine.
Slavery Institution as a Source for Victimization In conclusion, the slavery institution as a concept was harmful not only to slaves but also to slaveholders. This practice degrades the common values.
Slavery and the Compromise of 1850 The Compromise of 1850 gave the US a temporary respite but did not and could not solve the problem of slavery.
Gendered Aspects of Slavery in American History The US social, political, and economic development is significantly shaped by slavery among African Americans.
Eric Williams: Slavery Was Not Born Out of Racism In “Capitalism and Slavery,” Williams writes: “Slavery was not born out of racism: rather, racism was the consequence of slavery”.
History of Texas: Colonization and Slavery Texas has a rich history characterized by its unintended colonization by the Spaniards and the ultimate widespread African slavery.
Plantation Slavery in Louisiana The period of slavery in the US is one of the darkest periods in the history. The purpose of this essay is to study the stories of former slaves to get an idea of slavery in Louisiana.
The Birth of Slavery in America Indeed, all thirteen of the original states actively practiced slavery, but the same patterns of using cheap labor differed markedly.
Antebellum Period Southerners and Slavery The South relied on slavery for economic prosperity and used the wealth acquired from plantations with slaves as laborers to justify slavery and the slave trade.
To Right the Wrongs: Reparations for Slavery The former colonial powers must repair the damage caused by centuries of violence and discrimination. The total number of victims of the slave trade is difficult to estimate.
The Role of Christianity in Slavery: Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass Religion is an efficient tool of persuasion. The owners used faith to control the workers and claimed to be virtuous since they prayed regularly.
Changes in the Character of Slavery in North America Colonial North America became the first continent on which the slave system took root and developed on a colossal scale.
Haiti: From Slavery to Emancipation The Haitian Revolution had a significant impact on the African American movements and the subsequent abolition of slavery in many countries of America.
Douglass’s Arguments on Slavery Abolition The cotton culture became not only the basis for international trade and violence of Native Americans but also the desire for social justice.
Impacts of Slavery on the Antebellum USA This article is about the impact of slavery on the American economy, society, and politics before the Civil War.
Treatment of Women During Slavery in the North American Colonies Slave reproduction was considered to be good in the North American colonies, the region where the greatest slave population growth was recorded.
Geography of Slavery in Virginia One of the prime examples of slavery’s impact on the lives of human beings is the slavery patterns in Virginia in the 18th and 19th centuries.
White Slave Owners and the Tyranny of Slavery in Phillis Wheatley’s Poetry Published in 1773, Wheatley had an opportunity to speak out on the tyranny she and her race faced from day today.
The History of Slavery: Its Formation and Development Historically, slavery was spread across the world, taking many forms, nowadays it is seen as a quintessence of injustice, which brought suffering to many people, and is forbidden.
History of Slavery and Contemporary Society The study should provide comprehensive information on the influence of slavery and its history on the contemporary world and its people.
Rise of Slavery and Slave Trade Main Reasons In the Atlantic Ocean Basin Between 1400 and 1750 The main reason for the rise of the Atlantic slave trade between 1400 and 1750 was the importance of colonies for the development of the economy of European countries.
Southern Whites Defending Slavery Analysis This paper will attempt to explore the common moral justifications of slavery and the reasons why they appeared.
At-Will Employment: The 21st Century Form of Slavery At-will employment is defined as such relationships between an employer and employee in which the latter could be dismissed without any warning or valid reason.
Fight Over Slavery of the Southern Population An increasing number of anti-slavery politicians and supporters of emancipation contributed to the paranoia among the Southern population.
History of Slavery: Slaves and Servants in Virginia The history of slavery in Virginia traces back to the 1600s, as it was found as the colony of the English through the London Virginia Company.
Slavery vs. Indentured Servants The main difference between slaves and indentured servants is that while slaves were not free as they were their masters’ property, indentured servants enjoyed some freedom.
Post-Slavery Abolishment United States This paper discusses the post-Civil war period’s issues with the South, paces of industrialization and business development, and expansion to the West after slavery abolishment.
America: A Culture Around Slavery American cultural background, reflected in the practice of sending Africans and blacks into slavery, as well as the position of women in slavery and the sale of their bodies.
Sectionalism and Slavery in American History Sectionalism and slavery are important topics in American history. Sectionalism refers to the divide that was created between the northern and southern territories.
Slavery Operation Institution and Its Impacts to Slaves Slavery was indeed the worst crime against humanity in that era, a lot of people suffered from mistreatment some even dying.
Child Slavery and Sexual Trafficking Child slavery is a business, which brings milliards of dollars to its owners, a reality of our world. Many people believe that it happens somewhere far away and not in our community.
Abraham Lincoln’s Policies on Slavery in 1861-1863 Abraham Lincoln was one the most powerful presidents of the United States. The essay explains the evolution of Lincoln’s policies on slavery from July 1861 to November 1863.
Readings on Slavery and Racial Segregation in the US Certain themes expressed in the readings are too surprising to be true. Many years after slavery was abandoned, the black generation still suffered its consequences.
Slavery as a Peculiar Institution When slavery was defined as a peculiar institution, it was thought to mean a distinctive aspect of the people of the US who had embraced it.
Slavery in the South: Definite or Indefinite? This paper will try to explore what doomed slavery in the South by the eve of the Civil War. It will try to discuss whether the institution could have been maintained indefinitely.
The North and South of America and a Slavery Revealition of the sub-regional diffrences between the North and the South due to the opposing points of view as to abolishment of slavery.
The Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade and Slavery Abolishment Slave trade carried out mostly in the 17th-18th centuries encompassed the capturing, selling, and purchase of people for the sole purpose of forced labor.
International Child Trafficking: The Modern Slavery The modern-day slavery represented by the millions of children who cross borders as sex slaves should turn the blot into a wound.
Labor Exploitation and Slavery Employment mistreatment is associated with remorseless communal relations where a fastidious cluster is treated unjustly to profit the other revelry.
Slavery and Literacy. The Triumph of a Poor Slave Olaudah Equiano begins his story by telling readers how he was being kidnapped by the members of rivaling tribe in his native Africa while still a child and turned into a slave.
Major Slavery Events Between 1850-1860 The essay describes the crucial historical events that caused the complete slavery abolition that took place between 1850 and 1860.
Transnational Labour, Slavery, and Revolt Nowadays The theory of class conflict paints history as a never-ending series of struggles between different classes in order to achieve political and economic dominance.
Slavery in Hispaniola and Mexico This paper analyzes the history of slavery in Hispaniola and Mexico, its evolution, abolition, and similar malpractices encountered in the region today.
Slavery and Its Religious and Moral Aspects The letter by Foster included in “The Brotherhood of Thieves” and the work “Slavery and the Bible” by an unknown author discuss the religious and moral aspects of slavery.
Slavery and Its Impact on Modern Social Relations Slavery used to be a part of the history of many countries. This paper aims at investigating the history of slavery and its influence on modern social relations.
Impact of Slavery on Modern Society Slavery casts a dark shadow on the history of the United States, and knowing about the devastating impact it had on generations of people is fundamental.
Transformations in Slavery and Effects of Slavery on Society In order to provide an adequate periodization of slavery, it is critical to distinguish between incidental and systematic slavery.
Concepts of Pro-Slavery and Anti-Slavery Fighting class inequality is one of the most controversial topics in American history, and the role of some human rights defenders in eradicating this dangerous trend is significant.
Slavery Concepts in Africa Slavery existed in Africa in the form of servitude long before Europeans landed on the continent and commercialized the practice.
Slavery vs. Indentured Servitude in North America The first Europeans settled in North America began to buy Africans in order to provide farm labor. Such individuals or plantation owners treated them as servants.
Slavery Impact on Modern American Society Slavery casts a dark shadow on the history of the US, and knowing about the devastating impact is fundamental. The paper investigates the impact of slavery on modern society.
Slavery in Africa After European Colonization Slavery existed among most modern societies, including African. Even before the European colonization and the onset of the slave trade, it was a part of the culture.
Slavery in Africa and British American Colonies In the middle of the seventeenth century, the British American colonies were strongly connected to and ruled by the motherland.
Slavery Practices of Africans vs. Europeans Even though slavery had existed among African peoples prior to the European slave trade, its conditions were significantly different when comparing these two regions.
Slavery in African vs. European Countries In historical time, slavery in Africa had various forms which sometimes did not correspond to the concept of slavery adopted in the rest of the world.
History: Transnational Labor, Slavery, and Revolt Slavery is a tragedy and one of the darkest pages of human history. At present, slavery is officially prohibited in all countries of the world.
Slavery in “The Satyricon” Novel by Petronius The excellent Roman novel, Satyricon, by Gaius Petronius, is a suitable platform, from which the subject of slavery gets a different approach.
The Impact of Slavery Slavery had a massive impact upon the development of the United States of America and on the transformation of the African-American ethnic group into the way it currently is.
Colonialism and Slavery in American History This essay discusses reasons for colonization by the European countries and compares the slave experience in the upper South and the lower South.
Slavery and Civil War: American History American history is defined by slavery. The founding fathers of America, in the 17th and 18th century, grew the economy through slave labor.
How Frederick Douglass Escaped Slavery? When Douglas managed to escape from slavery and safely landed in New York, he felt that he had come to a completely new world. He compares a day in New York to a year in slavery.
The Issue of Slavery and the State’s Rights This paper seeks to find out whether the issue of slavery and the state’s rights were important in the secession process and the role of the northern abolition movement.
The History of Slavery and Its Impacts This paper argues that a majority of the stated discriminatory issues that are witnessed in contemporary society are the effects of slavery.
The Impact of Slavery on the Development of the USA In this paper, the researcher analyzes the history of slavery in order to identify the impact it had on the development of the US. Slavery is an alien concept to the modern citizens of the USA.
Thomas Jefferson and the Concept of Slavery Jefferson stated that Native Americans were unspoiled by the sins of the developed world despite advocating for their extinction.
The Slavery Question: Destiny and Sectional Discord The nation was split into those who believed that the slavery question had been successfully resolved and those who saw its threat to American society.
Development of the Northern Slavery System in America In one form or another slavery had been existing in any part of the world. There is hardly a nation that has managed to avoid this terrible form of a social development.
Slavery Impact on the United States’ Development Slavery is an alien concept to the modern citizens of the United States of America. Since late 19th century, this undemocratic institution has been abolished in the US.
Slavery’s Impact on Contemporary Society This study reveals that the history of slavery influences the politics of the United States, the identity of African-Americans, and the education system.
Slavery in Different Periods of American History The paper investigates the history of slavery in the United State by analyzing E. Berenson’s textbook, Cabet’s voyage to Icaria, and K. Marx ‘The American Civil War’.
Modern Slavery, Human Trafficking and Poverty Be it through the sexual enslavement of girls or trafficking of males for forced labor, slavery has had a tremendous impact on modern society.
Modern Slavery, Its Consequences and Countermeasures The relevance of the problem of slavery is statistically confirmed, and certain measures and interventions can help society to stop this danger.
Contemporary Slavery: Sex Trafficking Sex trafficking is an outlawed business practised by several countries around the globe. Sex trafficking immensely contributes to both local and international migrations.
History of Slavery and Its Impacts The concept of slavery in the contemporary society has undergone a gradual transformation. Modern forms of slavery include forced labor, child exploitation, sexual abuse, and human trafficking.
The History of Slavery and Contemporary Society Slavery is one of the most harmful concepts devised by humans. This paper will provide an overview of the history of slavery, as well as the effects it has on modern society.
History of Slavery and Its Impact on Contemporary Society Slavery is the period that cannot be forgotten, and the relations that were developed between people during the slavery period influenced the way of how people treat each other today.
History of Slavery and Its Impacts on Society The role of the history of slavery cannot be neglected. It introduces several lessons and much information about the mistakes that have been already made and the opportunities.
History of Slavery and Its Impact on the Society Slavery emerged together with the rise of the first civilization as the most primitive form of relationships between different members of the ancient society.
Slavery in Women’s and Men’s Narratives H. Jacobs’ “Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl” tells one of the perverted cases of sexual harassment. F. Douglas wanted to shoot down some pro-slavery arguments.
William Lloyd Garrison and Slavery in America William Lloyd Garrison made a significant contribution to the anti-slavery movement through his idealism. Garrison took both moral and practical approach to issues.
Slavery in the American Society Slavery is one of the historical events that characterize the American society since many people lost their lives in trying to prevent it while others decided to shift to other places.
Slavery Emancipation in Cuba, Haiti, and Brazil Slavery was viewed as both an infringement of human rights in addition to the existence of forced labor. Numerous differences existed in the manner in which slaves were treated across the globe.
Views on Slavery by F.Douglass and B.Washington Douglass and Washington draw the readers’ attention to the fact that their situations and descriptions of slave life are the reflections of the conditions typical for the period.
Defending Slavery: Termination of Slavery and Slave Trade in South America The United States amended its constitution in 1865 in an attempt to abolish the slave trade. However, the amendment only led to a decline in slavery.
Documentary: Slavery and the Making of America by Betty Wood Slavery and the making of America (2013) is an interesting documentary which tells different stories. Thus, it depicts the way people became slaves and the way they were sold and resold.
When Did Slavery Start in History?
Who First Started Slavery in Africa?
Did Racism Precede Slavery?
Did Slavery Create More Benefits or Problems for the Nation?
Did Southerners Favor Slavery?
Who Ended Slavery?
Who Abolished Slavery First?
Did Thomas Jefferson Want to End Slavery?
When Did Slavery End in Africa?
What Country Still Has Slavery?
What Were the Main Causes of Slavery?
Have Historians Over Emphasised the Slavery Issue as a Cause of the Civil War?
Is Slavery Still Legal in Texas?
How African Americans Were Treated During the Slavery Period?
Why Did the North Not Support Slavery?
How Did Slavery Start the Civil War?
How Did African American Slavery Help Shape America?
How Did African American Women Deal With and Survive Slavery?
Is Slavery Legal in Canada?
What Explains Slavery Was Milder in the North?
How Does the Legacy of Slavery Continue to Impact Both Blacks and Whites?
What Were Abraham Lincoln’s Feelings About Slavery?
What Contributed to the Spread of Slavery in the Southern American Colonies Between 1607 and 1775?
What Are Edmund Morgan’s Thesis and Argument About Slavery?
What Is a Modern Day Example of Slavery?
Where Is Slavery Most Common Today?
Does Slavery Still Exist in Today’s World?
What Are the Characteristics of Slavery in New York?
Is Slavery Illegal in the World?
What Created the Differences Between the North and South Concerning Slavery?

Cite this post

Chicago (N-B)
Chicago (A-D)

StudyCorgi. (2021, September 9). 203 Slavery Essay Topics. https://studycorgi.com/ideas/slavery-essay-topics/

"203 Slavery Essay Topics." StudyCorgi , 9 Sept. 2021, studycorgi.com/ideas/slavery-essay-topics/.

StudyCorgi . (2021) '203 Slavery Essay Topics'. 9 September.

1. StudyCorgi . "203 Slavery Essay Topics." September 9, 2021. https://studycorgi.com/ideas/slavery-essay-topics/.

Bibliography

StudyCorgi . "203 Slavery Essay Topics." September 9, 2021. https://studycorgi.com/ideas/slavery-essay-topics/.

StudyCorgi . 2021. "203 Slavery Essay Topics." September 9, 2021. https://studycorgi.com/ideas/slavery-essay-topics/.

These essay examples and topics on Slavery were carefully selected by the StudyCorgi editorial team. They meet our highest standards in terms of grammar, punctuation, style, and fact accuracy. Please ensure you properly reference the materials if you’re using them to write your assignment.

This essay topic collection was updated on June 24, 2024 .

Foreign Affairs
CFR Education
Newsletters

Climate Change

Global Climate Agreements: Successes and Failures

Backgrounder by Lindsay Maizland December 5, 2023 Renewing America

Defense & Security
Diplomacy & International Institutions
Energy & Environment
Human Rights
Politics & Government
Social Issues

Myanmar’s Troubled History

Backgrounder by Lindsay Maizland January 31, 2022

Europe & Eurasia
Global Commons
Middle East & North Africa
Sub-Saharan Africa

How Tobacco Laws Could Help Close the Racial Gap on Cancer

Interactive by Olivia Angelino, Thomas J. Bollyky , Elle Ruggiero and Isabella Turilli February 1, 2023 Global Health Program

Backgrounders
Special Projects

Nonproliferation, Arms Control, and Disarmament

CFR Welcomes Lori Esposito Murray

July 25, 2024

Centers & Programs
Books & Reports
Independent Task Force Program
Fellowships

Oil and Petroleum Products

Academic Webinar: The Geopolitics of Oil

Webinar with Carolyn Kissane and Irina A. Faskianos April 12, 2023

Students and Educators
State & Local Officials
Religion Leaders
Local Journalists

NATO's Future: Enlarged and More European?

Virtual Event with Emma M. Ashford, Michael R. Carpenter, Camille Grand, Thomas Wright, Liana Fix and Charles A. Kupchan June 25, 2024 Europe Program

Lectureship Series
Webinars & Conference Calls
Member Login

Teaching Notes: Modern Slavery

Slavery, long banned and universally condemned, persists in many corners of the world, victimizing tens of millions of people.

Teaching Notes by Samir Goswami

January 16, 2018 11:30 am (EST)

Slavery disproportionally affects women and girls while also victimizing men and boys of all backgrounds, and no country in the world is immune. Consumers buy slave-made goods and services for which victims toil in mines, farms, factories, or private homes. Ending slavery takes political will, moral courage, and the collaboration of governments, businesses, and consumers.

Teaching Notes Components

Discussion questions.

What is slavery and what drives it? Is there a global consensus on the definition of slavery?
Are there places in the world where slavery is more prevalent? What are the drivers of higher prevalence in different parts of the world?
Is poverty a root cause of slavery? If so, would eliminating poverty eliminate slavery?
Are slavery and human trafficking the same thing? Can they be used interchangeably?
How does slavery impact women and children specifically?
How many slaves are in the world today and where are they?
Why is it difficult to eradicate slavery?
What does “state-sponsored slavery” mean? How can governments be pushed to end “state-sponsored slavery”?
How are people enslaved because they owe a debt to someone else?
Does law enforcement do enough to eradicate slavery?
Why is forced marriage considered a form of slavery?
Whose responsibility is it to end slavery? What are some common tactics and strategies used to combat slavery?

Essay Questions

Human Trafficking

Humanitarian Crises

Transnational Crime

Sexual Violence

The Walk Free Foundation and the International Labor Organization released a new estimate of modern day slavery in the world in 2017. Of the 40 million people living in slavery they found in the previous year, millions are said to be victims of forced marriage. What is forced marriage and why is it considered slavery? Should forced marriage be considered on par with sexual exploitation found in sex trafficking, or forced or child labor?
Many goods that we consume today could be made by slaves. These goods can be found in common products and components that are sourced from countries around the world. This means that many of us are inadvertently supporting exploitative labor practices. What role can consumers play to ensure that we don’t support factories and production facilities that exploit workers? What can businesses do to support fair and ethical supply chains? Are consumers and businesses doing enough?
Western definitions of slavery conflict with local and customary practices in some countries. For example, child marriage and even some forms of child labor are acceptable in some parts of the world, but considered human rights violations according to international standards. Is it fair to impose Western or international human rights norms on countries that conflict with their local customs and supersede local culture?
There is some evidence that labor trafficking is more prevalent throughout the world than sex trafficking, however, law enforcement arrests and prosecutes more offenders for sex trafficking than labor trafficking. Why is this the case? Why does sex trafficking get more attention than labor trafficking by law enforcement?
The U.S. government uses various foreign policy instruments to pressure other governments to uphold certain human rights standards. For example, the Trafficking in Persons Report issued annually by the U.S. State Department grades countries for their individual efforts to eradicate trafficking and slavery in their jurisdictions. Does this type of government-to-government advocacy and pressure have an effect? Is it important to integrate slavery concerns into U.S. foreign policy and for the U.S. government to hold other governments accountable?
Write a Paper to Explore Business Responsibility and Efforts to Eradicate Slavery Businesses in varying industries and geographies are aware that their supply chains could contain goods and services produced by slaves. Some employ various methods to find out how suppliers are treating and recruiting workers. Corporate social responsibility (CSR) is also a concept that has taken on increased significance as expectations build for companies to operate ethically. Write a paper on ethical sourcing or CSR with three examples of how they have been implemented. Papers should include definitions, evolution of practice, and regulatory frameworks, using contemporary examples. Students should cite their research and conduct, or access, at least one interview with a corporate practitioner and/or expert. 8 – 10 pages.
Attend a Webinar and/or Panel Presentation & Prepare a Brief Memo For this assignment, pretend that you are a sustainability manager at Acme Company who is researching methods that your company can instill to investigate whether there is slavery in your supply chain. Various nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), academic institutions, associations, and companies host, at no cost, one to two hour webinars and/or forums related to ethical sourcing and procurement, business practices, and human rights. These are good opportunities to hear from practitioners in the field about how principles are translated into practice. View or attend one such event that pertains to how businesses are promoting human rights and working to eradicate slavery from their supply chains. Draft a brief memo addressed to your fictitious supervisor (e.g. the vice president of sustainability for Acme Company) that succinctly summarizes the following: - Why you attended the session and your goals for it; - Three key findings that you learned; - How you will apply those learnings; - Any key contacts who attended or presented that you will reach out to and why. Remember, vice presidents are busy people and your memo should be succinct and directly address the four points above. The list below are suggestions of resources that you can choose from, or you may find one on your own. Please note that you can also view a prerecorded webinar, however it must be from no earlier than January 2016. - Business & Human Rights Resource Centre - Business for Social Responsibility (BSR) - International Corporate Accountability Roundtable (ICAR) - Babson College's Initiative on Human Trafficking and Modern Slavery - United Way's Center on Human Trafficking and Modern Slavery - United Nations Global Compact - Global Business Initiative on Human Rights
Conduct an Advocacy Presentation Various international NGOs work on global human rights issues and advocate for change based on internationally accepted standards. They document rights violations and lead campaigns to raise awareness and build political will. For example, Amnesty International puts pressure on the U.S. government, as well as the United Nations, to create and implement policies that uphold human rights standards. For this assignment, obtain an advocacy report published by an NGO that is related to modern slavery and human rights and learn about the issues and solutions that the organization highlights. Then, produce a three to five minute video presenting the report and its findings. Your (pretend) audience will be members of the UN Human Rights Council, meeting for a special session on modern slavery.
Draft an Op-Ed to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution Sex trafficking is prevalent in large and small cities throughout the United States. Most states have local laws criminalizing sex trafficking that aim to punish offenders and provide justice and social services for its victims. These laws generally use the “force, fraud, and coercion” definition of human trafficking to identify whether a victim of exploitation has been trafficked. However, there is also an argument that many of these laws criminalize women and men who choose to prostitute themselves and that they have the right to do so. This perspective often states that voluntarily selling your own body for sex should be considered legitimate for adults. This approach views additional sex trafficking and antiprostitution laws as putting victims at further risk of exploitation. For this assignment, research the various perspectives that exist on sex trafficking and formulate your own opinion about whether selling sex can be equated with sex trafficking and slavery. Think about the public policy implications and recommend which laws and policies should be implemented in Atlanta, Georgia. Present this perspective with research citations that provide evidence to support your opinion in an op-ed. 500–750 words.

Sources to consult: ILO/Walk Free Global Estimate

Download the Teaching Notes

Visit CFR's InfoGuide on Modern Slavery

View Other Teaching Notes

Article contents

Atlantic slavery and the slave trade: history and historiography.

Daniel B. Domingues da Silva Daniel B. Domingues da Silva History Department, Rice University
and Philip Misevich Philip Misevich Department of History, St. John’s University
https://doi.org/10.1093/acrefore/9780190277734.013.371
Published online: 20 November 2018

Over the past six decades, the historiography of Atlantic slavery and the slave trade has shown remarkable growth and sophistication. Historians have marshalled a vast array of sources and offered rich and compelling explanations for these two great tragedies in human history. The survey of this vibrant scholarly tradition throws light on major theoretical and interpretive shifts over time and indicates potential new pathways for future research. While early scholarly efforts have assessed plantation slavery in particular on the antebellum United States South, new voices—those of Western women inspired by the feminist movement and non-Western men and women who began entering academia in larger numbers over the second half of the 20th century—revolutionized views of slavery across time and space. The introduction of new methodological approaches to the field, particularly through dialogue between scholars who engage in quantitative analysis and those who privilege social history sources that are more revealing of lived experiences, has conditioned the types of questions and arguments about slavery and the slave trade that the field has generated. Finally, digital approaches had a significant impact on the field, opening new possibilities to assess and share data from around the world and helping foster an increasingly global conversation about the causes, consequences, and integration of slave systems. No synthesis will ever cover all the details of these thriving subjects of study and, judging from the passionate debates that continue to unfold, interest in the history of slavery and the slave trade is unlikely to fade.

slave trade
historiography

From the 16th to the mid- 19th century , approximately 12.5 million enslaved Africans were forcibly embarked on slave ships, of whom only 10.7 million survived the notorious Middle Passage. 1 Captives were transported in vessels that flew the colors of several nations, mainly Portugal, Britain, France, Spain, and the Netherlands. Ships departed from ports located in these countries or their overseas possessions, loaded slaves at one or more points along the coast of Africa, and then transported them to one or more ports in the Americas. They sailed along established trade routes shaped by political forces, commercial partnerships, and environmental factors, such as the winds and sea currents. The triangular system is no doubt the most famous route but in fact nearly half of all slaves were embarked on vessels that traveled directly between the Americas and Africa. 2 Africans forced beneath the decks of slave vessels were captured in the continent’s interior through several means. Warfare was, perhaps, the commonest, yielding large numbers of captives for sale at a time. Other methods of enslavement included judicial proceedings, pawning, and kidnappings. 3 Depending on the routes captives traveled and the ways they were captured, Africans could sometimes find themselves in the holds of ships with people who belonged to their same cultures, were from their same villages, or were even close relatives. 4 None of this, however, attenuated the sufferings and appalling conditions under which they sailed. Slaves at sea were subjected to constant confinement, brutal violence, malnutrition, diseases, sexual violence, and many other abuses. 5

Upon arrival in the Americas, Africans often found themselves in equally hostile environments. Slavery in the mining industry and on cash crop plantations, especially those that produced sugar and rice, significantly reduced Africans’ life expectancies and required owners to replenish their labor force through the slave trade. 6 By contrast, slave systems centered on less intensive crops and the services industry, particularly in cities, ports, and towns, often offered enslaved Africans better chances of survival and even the possibility of achieving freedom through manumission by purchase, gift, or inheritance. 7 These apparent advantages did not necessarily mean that life was any less harsh. Neither did the prospect of freedom significantly change slaves’ material lives. Few individuals managed to obtain manumission and those who did encountered many other barriers that prevented them from fully enjoying their lives as free citizens. 8 In spite of those barriers, slaves challenged their status and conditions in many ways, ranging from “quiet” forms of resistance—slowdowns, breaking tools, and feigning illness at work—to bolder initiatives such as running away, plotting conspiracies, and launching rebellions. 9 Although slavery provided little room for autonomy, Africans strove to maintain or replicate aspects of their cultures in the Americas. Whenever possible, they married people with their same backgrounds, named their children in their own languages, cooked foods using techniques, styles, and ingredients similar to those found in their motherlands, composed songs in the beats of their homelands, and worshipped ancestral spirits, deities, and gods in the same fashion as their forbears. 10 At the same time, slave culture was subject to constant change, a process that over the long run enabled enslaved people to better navigate the dangerous world that slavery created. 11

This overview may seem rather free of controversy, but it is in fact the result of years of debates, some still raging, and research conducted by generations of historians of slavery and the slave trade. Perhaps no other historical fields have been so productive and transformative over such a short period of time. Since the 1950s, scholars have developed and refined new methods, created new theoretical models, brought previously untapped sources to light, and posed new questions that shine bright new light on the experiences of enslaved people and their owners as well as the social, political, economic, and cultural worlds that they created in the diaspora. Although debates about Atlantic slavery and the slave trade go back to the era of abolition, historians began grappling in earnest with these issues in the aftermath of World War II. Early scholarship focused on the United States and tended to articulate views of slavery that reflected elite sources and perspectives. 12 Inspired by the US civil rights movement, second-wave feminism, and wider global decolonization campaigns, the 1960s and 1970s witnessed the rise of approaches to the study of slavery rooted in new social history, which aimed to understand slaves as central historical actors rather than mere victims of exploitation. 13 Around the same time, a group of scholars trained in statistical analysis sparked passionate debates about the extent to which quantitative assessments of slavery and slave trading effectively represented slaves’ lived experiences. 14 To more vividly capture those experiences, some historians turned to new or underutilized tools, particularly biographies, family histories, and microhistories, which provided windows into local historical dynamics. 15 The significance of the penetrating questions that these fruitful debates raised has been amplified in recent decades in response to the growing influence of transnational and Atlantic approaches to slavery. Atlantic frameworks have required the gathering and analysis of new data on slavery and the slave trade around the world, encouraging scholars from previously underrepresented regions to challenge Anglo-American dominance in the field. Finally, the digital turn in the 21st century has provided new models for developing historical projects on slavery and the slave trade and helped democratize access to once inaccessible sources. 16 This article draws on this rich history of scholarship on slavery and the slave trade to illustrate major theoretical and interpretive shifts over time and raise questions about the future prospects for this dynamic field of study.

Models of Slavery and Resistance

While each country in the Americas has its own national historiography on slavery, from a 21st-century perspective, it is hard to overestimate the role that US-based scholars played in shaping the agenda of slavery studies. Analyses of American plantation records began around the turn of the 20th century . Early debates emerged in particular over the conditions of slavery in the American South and views of the relationship between slaves and owners. Setting the foundation for these debates in the early- 20th century , Ulrich Bonnell Phillips offered an extraordinarily romanticized vision of life on the plantation. 17 Steeped in open racism, his work compared slave plantations to benevolent schools that over time “civilized” enslaved peoples. Conditioned by the kinds of revisionist interpretations of Southern slavery that emerged in the era following Reconstruction, Phillips saw American slavery as a benign institution that persisted despite its economic inefficiency. His work trivialized the violence inherent in slave systems, a view some Americans were eager to accept and, given his standing among subsequent generations of slavery scholars, one that prevailed in the profession for half of a century.

Early challenges to this view had little immediate impact within academic circles. That primarily black intellectuals, working in or speaking to white-dominated academies, offered many of the most sophisticated objections helps explain the persistence of Phillips’ influence. In the face of looming institutional racism, several scholars offered bold and fresh interpretations that uprooted basic ideas about the slave system. Over his illustrious career, W. E. B. Du Bois highlighted the powerful structural impediments that restricted black lives and brought attention to the dynamic ways that African Americans confronted systematic exploitation. Eric Williams, a noted Trinidadian historian, took aim at the history of abolition, arguing that self-interest—rather than humanitarian concerns—led to the abolition of slavery throughout the British Empire. Melville Herskovitz, a prominent white American anthropologist, turned his attention to the connections between African and African American culture. 18 Though many of these works were marginalized at the time they were produced, this scholarship is rightfully credited with, among other things, shining light on the relationship between African and African American history. Turning their attention to Africa, scholars discovered a variety of cultural practices that, they argued, shaped the black experience under slavery and in its aftermath. Even those scholars who challenged or rejected this Africa-centered approach pushed enslaved people to the center of their analyses, representing a radical departure from previous studies. 19

Similarly, works focused on the history of slavery and the slave trade in other regions of the Americas, especially those colonized by France, Spain, and Portugal, were often overlooked. The economies of many of these regions had historically depended on slave labor. The size of the captive populations of some of them rivaled that of the United States. Moreover, they had been involved in the slave trade for much longer and far more extensively than any other region of what became the United States. Researchers in Brazil, Cuba, and other countries often noticed these points. 20 Some of them, like the Brazilian sociologist Gilberto Freyre, received training in the United States and produced significant research. However, because they published mainly in Portuguese and Spanish, and translations were hard to come by, their work had little initial impact on Anglo-American scholarship. The few scholars who did realize the importance of this work used it to draw comparisons between the Anglophone and non-Anglophone worlds of slavery, highlighting differences in their patterns of colonization and emphasizing the distinctive roles that Catholicism and colonial legal regimes played in shaping slave systems across parts of the Americas. A greater incidence of miscegenation and slaves’ relative accessibility to freedom through manumission led some scholars to argue that slavery in the non-Anglophone New World was milder than in antebellum America or the British colonies. 21

In the United States, the dominant narratives of American slavery continued to emphasize the absolute authority of slave owners. Even critics of Phillips, who emerged in larger numbers in the 1950s and vigorously challenged his conclusions, thought little of slaves’ abilities to effect meaningful change on plantations. Yet they did offer new interpretations of American slavery, as the metaphors scholars used in this decade to characterize the system attest. Far from Phillips’ training school, Kenneth Stampp argued that plantation slavery more appropriately resembled a prison in which enslaved people became completely dependent on their owners. 22 Going even further, Stanley M. Elkins compared American slavery to a concentration camp. 23 The experience of slavery was so traumatic that it stripped enslaved people of their identities and rendered them almost completely helpless. American slavery, in Elkins’ view, turned African Americans into infantilized “Sambos” whose minds and wills came to mirror those of their owners. While such studies drew much needed attention to the violence of plantation slavery, they all but closed the door on questions about slave agency and cultural production. Emphasizing slave autonomy ran the risk of minimizing the brutality of slave owners, and for those scholars trying to overturn Phillips’s vision of American slavery, that brutality was what defined the plantation enterprise.

It took the revolutionary spirit of the 1960s to move slavery studies in a significantly new direction. Driven by their hard-fought battles for political rights at home, African Americans and others whom the civil rights movement inspired added critical new voices and perspectives that required a rethinking of the American past. Scholars who emerged during this period largely rejected the overwhelming authority of the planter class and instead turned their attention to the activities of enslaved people. Slaves, they found, created spaces for themselves and exercised their autonomy on plantations in myriad ways. While they recognized the violence of the slave system, historians of this generation were more interested in assessing the development of black society and identifying resistance to plantation slavery. Far from the brainwashed prisoners of their owners, enslaved people were recast as producers of dynamic and enduring cultures. One key to this transformation was a more careful analysis of what occurred within slave quarters, where new research uncovered the existence of relatively stable—at least under the circumstances—family life. Another emphasized religion as a tool that slaves used to improve their conditions and forge new identities in the diaspora. The immediate post-civil rights period also saw scholars renew their interest in Africa, breathing new life into older debates about the origins and survival of cultural practices in the Americas. 24

What much of the scholarship in this period shared was the idea that no matter how vicious the system, planter power was always incomplete. Recognizing that reality, slaves and their owners established a set of ground rules that granted slaves a degree of autonomy in an attempt to minimize resistance. Beyond mere brutality, slavery thus rested on unwritten but widely understood slave “rights”—Sundays off from plantation labor, the cultivation of private garden plots, participation in an independent slave economy—that both sides negotiated and frequently challenged. This view was central to Eugene Genovese’s magisterial book, Roll Jordan, Roll: The World the Slaves Made , which employed the concept of paternalism to help make sense of 19th-century Southern slavery. 25 Paternalist ideology provided owners with a theoretical justification for slavery’s continuation in the face of widespread criticism from Northern abolitionists. Unlike in the urban North, Southerners claimed, where free African Americans faced deplorable conditions and had little social support, slave owners claimed to take better care of their “black and white” families. Slaves also embraced paternalism, though toward a different end: doing so enabled them to use the idea of the “benevolent planter” to their own advantage and make claims for incremental improvements in slaves’ lives. Slavery, Genovese argued, was thus based on the mutual interdependence of owners and slaves.

The degree of intimacy between slaves and owners that paternalism implied spoke to another question that occupied scholars writing in the 1960s and 1970s: given the violence of the slave system, why had so few large-scale slave rebellions occurred? For Phillips and those whom he influenced, the benevolent nature of Southern slavery provided a sufficient explanation. But undeniable evidence of the violence of slavery required making sense of patterns—or the seeming lack—of slave resistance. Unlike on some Caribbean islands, where slaves far outnumbered free people and environmental and geographic factors tended to concentrate the location of plantations, conditions in the United States were less conducive to widespread rebellion. Yet slaves never passively accepted their captivity. The literature on resistance during this period deemphasized violent forms of rebellion, which occurred infrequently, and reoriented scholarship toward the variety of ways that enslaved people challenged the domination of slave owners over them. Having adjusted their lenses, historians found evidence of slave resistance seemingly everywhere. Enslaved people slowed the paces at which they worked, feigned illnesses, broke tools, and injured or let escape animals on plantations. Such “day-to-day” resistance did little to overturn slavery but it gave some control to captives over their work regimes. In some cases, slaves acted even more boldly, committing arson or poisoning those men and women responsible for upholding the system of bondage. Resistance also took the form of running away, a strategy that long preceded the famous Underground Railroad in North America and posed unique problems in territories with unsettled frontiers, unfriendly environmental terrain, and diverse indigenous populations into which fleeing captives could integrate. 26

This shift in scholarship toward slave agency and resistance was anchored in the creative use of sources that had previously been unknown or underappreciated. Although they had long recognized the shortcomings of Phillips’s reliance on records from a limited number of large plantations, historians struggled to find better options, particularly those that shed light on the experiences and perspectives of enslaved people. Slave biographies provided one alternative. In the 1970s, John Blassingame gathered an exhaustive collection of runaway slave accounts to examine the life experiences of American slaves. 27 Whether such biographies spoke to the majority of slaves or represented a few exceptional black men became the subject of considerable disagreement. Scholars who were less trusting of biographies turned to the large collection of interviews that the Federal Writers’ Project of the Works Progress Administration conducted with former slaves. 28 Though far more numerous and representative of “typical” slave experiences, the WPA interviews had their own problems. Would former slaves have been comfortable speaking freely to primarily white interviewers about their lives in bondage? The question remains open. Equally pressing was the concern over the amount of time that had passed between the end of slavery and the period when the interviews were conducted. Indeed, some two-thirds of interviewees were octogenarians when federal employees recorded their stories. Despite such shortcomings, these sources and the new interpretations of slavery that they supported pushed scholarship in exciting new directions. Slaves could no longer be dismissed as passive victims of the plantation system. The new sources and approaches humanized them and reoriented scholarship toward the communities that slaves made.

Across the Atlantic, scholars of Africa began to grapple in earnest with questions about slavery, too. Early contributions to debates over the role of the institution in Africa and its impact on African societies came from historians and anthropologists. One strand of disagreement emerged over whether slavery existed there at all prior to the arrival of Europeans. This raised more fundamental questions about how to define slavery. The influential introduction to Suzanne Miers and Igor Kopytoff’s edited volume, Slavery in Africa: Historical and Anthropological Perspectives , took pains to distinguish African slavery from its American counterparts. It rooted slavery not in racial difference or the growth of plantation agriculture but rather in the context of Africa’s kin-based social organization. According to the coauthors, the institution’s primary function in Africa was to incorporate outsiders into new societies. 29 So distinctive was this form of captivity that Miers and Kopytoff famously deployed scare quotes each time they used the word “slavery” in order to underscore its uniqueness.

Given their emphasis on incorporation, the process by which enslaved people over time became accepted insiders in the societies into which they were forcibly introduced, and their limited treatment of the economically productive roles that slaves played, Miers and Kopytoff came in for swift criticism on several fronts. Neo-Marxists were particularly dissatisfied. Claude Meillassoux, the prominent French scholar, responded with an alternative vision of slavery in Africa that highlighted the violence that was at the core of enslavement. 30 That violence made slavery the very antithesis of kinship, which to many scholars invalidated Miers and Kopytoff’s interpretation. Meillassoux and others also pointed to the dynamic economic roles that slaves played in Africa. 31 Studies in various local settings—in the Sokoto Caliphate, the Western Sudan, and elsewhere—made clear that slavery was a central part of how African societies organized productive labor. 32 This reality led some scholars to articulate distinct slave, or African, modes of production that, they argued, better illuminated the role of slavery in the continent. 33

In addition to these deep theoretical differences, one factor that contributed to the debates was the lack of historical sources that spoke to the changing nature of slavery in Africa. Documentary evidence describing slave societies is heavily concentrated in the 19th century , the period when Europe’s presence in Africa became more widespread and when colonialism and abolitionism colored Western views of Africans and their social institutions. To overcome source limitations, academics cast their nets widely, drawing on methodological innovations from anthropology and comparative linguistics, among other disciplines. 34 Participant observation, through which Africanists immersed themselves in the communities they studied in order to understand local languages and cultures, proved particularly valuable. 35 Yet the enthusiasm for this approach, which for many offered a more authentic path to access African cultures and voices, led some scholars to ignore or paper over its limitations. 36 To what extent, for example, did oral sources or observations of social structures in the 20th century reveal historical realities from previous eras? Other historians projected back in time insights from the more numerous written sources from the 19th century , using them to consider slavery in earlier periods. 37 Those who uncritically accepted evidence from such sources—whether non-written or written—came away with a timeless view of the African past, including as it related to slavery. 38 It would take another decade, during which the field witnessed revolutionary changes to the collection and analysis of data, until scholars began to widely accept the fact that, as in the Americas, slavery differed across time and space.

The Cliometric Debates

Around the same time that some scholars in the Americas were pushing enslaved people to the center of slavery narratives, a separate group of academics trained in economics began steering the focus of studies of slavery and the slave trade in a different direction. While research on planter power and slave resistance allowed historians to infer broad patterns of transformation from a limited collection of local records, this new group of scholars turned this approach upside down. They proposed to assess the underlying forces that shaped slavery and the slave trade to better contextualize the individual experiences of enslaved people. This big-picture approach was rooted in the quantification of large amounts of data available in archival sources spread across multiple locations and led ultimately to the development of “cliometrics,” a radically new methodology in the field. Two works were particularly important to the establishment of this approach: Philip Curtin’s The Atlantic Slave Trade: A Census and Robert Fogel and Stanley Engerman’s Time on the Cross: The Economics of American Negro Slavery . 39

Philip Curtin’s “census” provided the first quantitative assessment of the size, evolution, and distribution of the transatlantic slave trade between the 15th and 19th centuries . Previous estimates of the magnitude of the transatlantic trade claimed that it involved somewhere between fifteen and twenty million enslaved Africans—or in some cases many times that amount. 40 However, upon careful examination, Curtin found that such estimates were “nothing but a vast inertia, as historians have copied over and over again the flimsy results of unsubstantial guesswork.” 41 He thus set out to provide a new figure based on a close reading of secondary works that themselves had been based on extensive archival research. To assist in this endeavor, Curtin enlisted a technology that had only recently become available to researchers: the mainframe computer. He collected data on the number of slaves that ships of every nation involved in the traffic had embarked and disembarked, recorded these data on punch cards, and used the computer to organize the information into time series that allowed him to make projections for the periods and branches of the traffic for which data were scarce or altogether unavailable. Curtin’s findings posed profound challenges to the most basic assumptions about the transatlantic traffic. They revealed that the number of Africans forcibly transported to the Americas was substantially lower than what historians had previously assumed. Curtin also demonstrated that while the British were the most active slave traders during the second half of the 18th century , when the trade had reached its height, the Portuguese (and, after independence, Brazilians as well) carried far more enslaved people during the entire period of the transatlantic trade. 42 Furthermore, while the United States boasted the largest slave population by the mid- 19th century , it was a comparatively minor destination for vessels engaged in the trade: the region received less than 5 percent of all captive Africans transported across the Atlantic. 43

Curtin’s assessment of the slave trade inspired researchers to flock to local archives and compile new statistical data on the number and carrying capacity of slaving vessels departing or entering particular ports or regions around the Atlantic basin. Building on Curtin’s solid foundation, these scholars produced dozens of studies on the volume of various branches of the transatlantic trade. Virtually every port that dispatched slaving vessels to Africa or at which enslaved Africans were disembarked in the Americas received scholarly attention. What emerged from this work was an increasingly clear picture of the volume and structure of the Atlantic slave trade at local, regional, and national levels, though the South Atlantic slave trade remained comparatively understudied. 44 Historians of Africa also joined in these discussions, providing tentative assessments of slave exports from regions along the coast of West and West Central Africa. 45 The deepening pool of data that such research generated enabled scholars to use quantitative methods to consider other aspects of the transatlantic trade. How did mortality rates differ on slave vessels from one national carrier to another? 46 Which ports dispatched larger or smaller vessels and what implications did vessel size have for participation in the slave trade? 47 Which types of European commodities were most highly sought after in exchange for African captives? 48 As these questions imply, scholars had for the first time approached the slave trade as its own distinctive topic for research, which had revolutionary consequences for the future of the field.

Time on the Cross had an effect on slavery scholarship that was similar to—indeed, perhaps even greater than—that of Curtin’s, especially among scholars focused on the antebellum US South. Inspired by studies that challenged the view of plantation slavery as unprofitable, Fogel and Engerman, with the help of a team of researchers, set out to quantify nearly every aspect of that institution in the US South, from slaves’ average daily food consumption to the amount of cotton produced in the US South during the antebellum era. 49 Consistent with the cliometricians’ approach, Fogel and Engerman listed ten findings that “contradicted many of the most important propositions in the traditional portrayal of the slave system.” 50 Their most important—and controversial—conclusions were that slavery was a rational system of labor exploitation maintained by planters to maximize their own economic interests; that it was growing on the eve of the Civil War; and that owners were optimistic rather than pessimistic about the future of the slave system during the decade that preceded the war. 51 Further, the authors noted that slave labor was productive. “On average,” the cliometricians argued, a slave was “harder-working and more efficient than his white counterpart.” 52

While cliometrics made important contributions to the study of slavery and the slave trade, the quantitative approach came in for swift and passionate criticism. Curtin’s significantly lower estimates for the number of enslaved Africans shipped across the Atlantic were met with skepticism; some respondents even charged that his figures trivialized the horrors of the trade. 53 Although praised for its revolutionary interpretation, which earned Fogel the Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences in 1993 , Fogel and Engerman’s study of the economics of American slavery was almost immediately cast aside as deeply flawed and unworthy of serious scholarly attention. Critics pointed not only to carelessness in the authors’ data collection techniques but also to their mathematical errors, abusive assumptions, and insufficient contextualization of data. 54 Fogel and Engerman, for example, characterized lynching as a “disciplinary tool.” After counting the number of whippings slaves received at one plantation, they concluded that masters there rarely used the punishment. They failed to note, however, the powerful effect that such abuse had on slaves and free people who merely watched or heard the horrible spectacle. 55 More generally, and apart from these specific problems, critics offered a theoretical objection to the quantitative approach, which, they argued, conceived of history as an objective science, with strong persuasive appeal, but which silenced the voices of the individuals victimized by the history of slavery and the slave trade.

Nevertheless, the methodology found followers among historians studying the history of slavery in other parts of the Atlantic. B. W. Higman’s massive two-volume work, Slave Populations of the British Caribbean, 1807–1834 , remains an unparalleled quantitative analysis of slave communities on the islands under British control. 56 Robert Louis Stein’s The French Sugar Business in the Eighteenth Century also makes substantial use of cliometrics and remains a valuable reference for students of slavery in Martinique and Saint Domingue (present-day Haiti). 57 But outside of the United States, nowhere was cliometrics more popular than Brazil, where scholars of slavery, including Pedro Carvalho de Mello, Herbert Klein, Francisco Vidal Luna, Robert Slenes, and others, applied it to examine many of the same issues that their North American counterparts did: rates of profitability, demographic growth, and economic expansion of slave systems. 58 Africanists also found value in the methodology and employed it as their sources allowed. Patrick Manning, for instance, used demographic modeling to examine the impact of the slave trade on African societies. 59 Philip Curtin compiled quantitative archival sources to analyze the evolution of the economy of Senegambia in the era of the slave trade. 60 Jan Hogendorn and Marion Johnson traced the circulation of cowries, the shell money of the slave trade, noting that “of all the goods from overseas exchanged for slaves, the shell money touched individuals most widely and often in their day-to-day activities.” 61

In many ways, the gap between quantitative and social and cultural approaches to slavery and the slave trade that opened in the 1970s has continued to divide the field. Concerned that cliometrics sucked the dynamism out of interpretations of the slave community and reduced captives to figures on a spreadsheet, some scholars responded by deploying a variety of new tools to reclaim the humanity and individuality of enslaved actors. Microhistory, an approach that early modern Europeanists developed to recover peasant and other everyday people’s stories, offered one such opportunity. 62 Biography provided another. By reducing its scale of observation and focusing on individuals, families, households, or other small-scale units of analysis, such research underscored the messiness of lived experiences and the creative and often unexpected ways that slaves fashioned worlds for themselves. 63 But such approaches raised a separate set of questions: do biographical accounts reveal typical experiences? In an era when few slaves were literate and even fewer committed their stories to paper, any captives whose accounts survived—in full or in fragments, published or unpublished—were by definition exceptional. Moreover, given the clear overarching framework that decades of quantitative work on the slave trade had developed, one would be hard-pressed to ignore completely the cliometric turn. As two quantitatively minded scholars noted, “it is difficult to assess the significance or representativity of personal narratives or collective biographies, however detailed, without an understanding of the overall movements of slaves of which these individuals’ lives were a part.” 64 While an emphasis on what might be described as the quantitative “big picture” is not by nature antagonistic toward social and cultural historians’ concerns with enslaved people’s lived experiences, the two approaches offer different visions of slavery’s past and often feel as if they sit on opposite ends of the analytical spectrum.

Women, Gender, and Slavery

In the roughly two and a half decades that followed the major interpretive shifts that Kenneth Stampp and Stanley Elkins introduced into scholarship on slavery, the field remained an almost exclusively male one. With rare exceptions, men continued to dominate the profession during this period; their work rarely probed with any degree of sophistication the experiences of women in plantation societies. While second-wave feminism inspired women to enter graduate programs in history in larger numbers beginning in the 1960s, it took time for published work on women’s history, at least as it related to slavery, to appear in earnest. Revealingly, it was not until 1985 that the Library of Congress created a unique catalog heading for “women slaves.” Yet in the three decades since then, women’s (and later gendered) histories of slavery have been published at an ever-increasing pace. Scholars in the 21st century would struggle to take seriously books written about slavery that fail to show an appreciation for the distinctive experiences of men and women in captivity or more generally across plantation societies.

Several forces worked against the production of studies on enslaved women. If sources detailing slaves’ lives are in general sparse, evidence on women slaves is particularly spotty. Deborah Gray White’s pioneering work, Aren’t I a Woman: Female Slaves in the Plantation South , the first book-length study of enslaved women, triumphantly pieced together fragments of information from Federal Writers’ Project interviews with scattered plantation records to breathe life into the historiography of black women. It revealed the powerful structures that served to constrain enslaved women’s lives in the 19th century United States. As White famously concluded: “Black in a white society, slave in a free society, women in a society ruled by men, female slaves had the least formal power and were perhaps the most vulnerable group of Antebellum Americans.” 65 Yet publishers and academic peers did not immediately take seriously work focused on women slaves. White noted, for example, how colleagues in her department warned her that she would be unlikely to earn tenure writing about such a topic. This environment was hardly the type of nurturing one required for sustained research. 66

Though it was an uphill struggle, an influential group of scholars gradually developed a framework for understanding slavery’s realities for women. Early work focused on the foundational tasks of recovering female voices and using them to challenge standard narratives of the plantation system. It made clear the complex and multifaceted roles of women captives—as mothers, wives, fieldworkers, and domestics—and in the process reshaped scholarly understanding of the dynamics of the plantation enterprise. Social relations within plantation households commanded particular attention. Some scholars emphasized bonds between black and white women whose lives, they argued, were conditioned by a shared and oppressive patriarchal culture. Catherine Clinton, for example, characterized white mistresses as “trapped” within plantation society. “Cotton was King, white men ruled, and both white women and slaves served the same master,” she argued. 67 While she sympathized with the plight of plantation mistresses, Elizabeth Fox-Genovese, another leading figure of American women’s history, offered a contrary view of gendered relations within Southern households, one that highlighted division. Far from sharing common interests with enslaved women, mistresses clearly benefitted from slavery’s continuation. Their status as white and elite took priority over the bonds of womanhood. 68

The first sustained studies of women’s resistance to slavery also appeared in the 1980s. The historiographical pivot toward day-to-day resistance, which more effectively revealed the sophisticated ways that enslaved Africans and their descendants challenged their captivity, also opened a window of opportunity to view women as disruptors of the slave system in their own right. No longer dismissed as, at most, timid supporters of male-led revolts, women were in this period redefined as “natural rebels” who exploited white perceptions of female docility for their own benefit. Enslaved women, for example, were not generally chained onboard slave vessels, which gave them greater opportunities to organize revolts. Those few women who worked in privileged positions within plantation households took on responsibilities that gave them unique access to white families and exposed them to white vulnerabilities. Cooks could theoretically poison their owners, a threat that seemed all too real given the world of violence that underpinned the plantation. And while the coercive realities of slavery rooted every sexual relationship between white men and black women in violence, some scholars pointed to the possibility that women slaves who endured such abuse saw marginal improvements in their material circumstances or the prospects for their children. 69

Within a decade of the publication of Deborah White’s book, scholarship began to shift away from analyses of women and toward investigations of the worlds that men and women made together under slavery. Scholars of Africa brought valuable insights into this issue, drawing on decades of careful research into local constructions of gender and, in particular, the gendered division of labor within Africa. Women, Africanists illustrated, performed many of the most important tasks in agricultural regimes across the continent. 70 Some historians argued that it was their physical rather than biological roles that led slave owners in Africa to prefer and retain female captives, challenging earlier rigid emphases on women’s childbearing capacities. 71 These polarized debates eventually gave way to local and more nuanced analyses that revealed the complex range of contributions that enslaved women made to African societies: Women had children that increased the sizes of households; they cultivated and marketed crops that fed and enriched kingdoms and other less centralized societies; they served as bodyguards to local elites; and they even bought, retained, and traded their own captives. 72 If slavery in Africa was widespread, it was precisely because women had such wide-ranging productive and reproductive value.

These insights had wider implications for the study of the slave trade and the Atlantic World. African conceptions of gender conditioned the supply to Europeans of men and women captives along the coast, illustrating the close relationship between gender issues and economic concerns. 73 Gendered identities that emerged in Africa were adapted and transformed in the Americas depending on demographic, economic, or cultural concerns. 74 Whereas in low-density slave systems, African women and their descendants might follow work regimes that resembled those of their homelands, the gendered division of labor in large slave societies often more closely reflected European attitudes toward women and work. 75 Grappling with such complex realities required historians to dig into local records across a staggering variety of geographic settings. It was in that context that scholars began to broaden their horizons and embrace an increasingly Atlantic orientation—a trend that mirrored broader changes in studies on slavery and the slave trade in the 1990s. 76

The Atlanticization of Slavery Studies

It may seem redundant to identify a shift toward the Atlanticization of slavery studies. Enslaved Africans, after all, were brought to the Americas from across the Atlantic. How, then, could these studies be anything but Atlantic? The reality is that historians have generally looked at the institution through rather parochial eyes, as something limited by regional, national, or cultural boundaries. There were several early and noteworthy exceptions to this trend. Indeed, calls for studies to look at the societies surrounding the ocean as an integral unit of analysis date as far back as the late 1910s. Several scholars took up that call, the most notable perhaps being Fernand Braudel in his 1949 masterpiece, The Mediterranean and the Mediterranean World in the Age of Philip II . 77 However, in an increasingly polarized world, the idea faced significant resistance and obstacles. Following World War II, Atlanticization could be easily read as a stand-in for imperialism or westernization. It was only toward the end of the Cold War that historians were able to move past these ideological barriers and understand the value of looking at the Atlantic as “the scene of a vast interaction rather than merely the transfer of Europeans onto American shores,” an interaction that was the result of “a sudden and harsh encounter between two old worlds that transformed both and integrated them into a single New World.” 78

This realization deeply shaped subsequent studies of the history of slavery and the slave trade, some of them reviving earlier debates about cultural continuity and change in the African diaspora. One of the most successful examples to focus on the influence of Africans in shaping slavery on both sides of the ocean is John Thornton’s Africa and Africans in the Making of the Atlantic World . In it, Thornton argues that slavery was the only form of “private, revenue-producing property recognized in African law.” 79 Consequently, African political and economic elites had significant leverage over the institution, giving them some control over the transatlantic traffic. Thornton’s argument offered a new logic for African participation in the slave trade while also providing a new interpretation of African culture in Africa and the Americas. Although enslaved Africans came from several different regions and societies, Thornton stresses the similarities between their cultures and languages. Based on research on the traffic’s organization, he notes that slave ships rarely purchased captives in more than one port and that they normally sailed along very specific routes. 80 Such an organization favored the transmission of some of the cultural practices enslaved Africans brought with them to the Americas. Nevertheless, Thornton points out, “slaves were not militant cultural nationalists who sought to preserve everything African but rather showed great flexibility in adapting and changing their culture.” 81 His approach thus emphasized the systematic linkages that the transatlantic slave trade forged while leaving space for creolization within slave communities.

Another important contribution that emphasized cultural transformation was Ira Berlin’s Many Thousands Gone: The First Two Centuries of Slavery in North America . 82 Looking to identify the first generations of blacks who chartered their descendants’ fate in mainland North America, Berlin located them among a group he called “Atlantic creoles,” people who traced their beginnings to the earliest encounters between Europeans and Africans on the west coast of Africa, but who ultimately emerged from the world that Europe, Africa, and the Americas collectively created. Cosmopolitan by experience or circumstance, familiar with the commerce of the Atlantic, and fluent in its languages and cultures, these individuals laid down the foundations for black life in the New World. 83 They arrived not as Africans desperate to replicate their culture, or flexible to adapt, but rather as profoundly changed individuals. Although they permeated most of the colonial societies of the Americas, Berlin claims that in mainland North America at least they were soon swept away by subsequent generations born under the expansion of large-scale commodity production, which ended the porous slave system of the early years of European and African settlement. 84

Although these were important contributions, the Atlanticization of slavery studies opened many more avenues to understand the experiences of Africans and their descendants during the years of bondage. It allowed for comparisons between Africans’ trajectories with those of other players in the formation of the Atlantic world. Paul Gilroy’s well-known Black Atlantic: Modernity and Double Consciousness is in a way a precursor, expressing “a desire to transcend both the structures of the nation state and the constraints of ethnicity and national particularity.” 85 Jack P. Greene and Philip D. Morgan’s edited volume, Atlantic History: A Critical Appraisal , views a handful of European nations—Spain, Portugal, Britain, France, and the Netherlands—as creating this new world centered around the Atlantic, but it also places Africans as well as the indigenous populations of the Americas in comparative perspective. 86 One immediate problem with this approach is that it conflates several hundreds of groups, nations, or peoples into a single category, “Africans,” a term that gained traction only as the slave trade expanded and, consequently, recognized by just a fraction of the people it intended to describe.

A more adequate approach, favored by the Atlantic framework of analysis, would focus on specific African regions or peoples. Here historians have made some progress, mainly in the form of edited volumes. Linda M. Heywood’s edited book, Central Africans and Cultural Transformations in the American Diaspora , looks at how Kikongo and Mbundu speakers, often times grouped under designations such as Angola, Benguela, or Congo in places in the Americas as distant from one another as Havana, Montevideo, New Orleans, Recife, and Port au Prince, culturally shaped the African diaspora. 87 Rebecca Shumway and Trevor R. Getz’s volume attempts a similar approach, centered on the societies of precolonial Ghana, mainly the Asante and Fante. 88 Toyin Falola and Matt D. Childs’s book, by contrast, focuses on a single African people, the Yoruba. 89 Not only were they a sizable group forced into the Atlantic, but they also left an indelible mark in several regions of the Americas. Interestingly, the Yoruba started calling themselves as such, that is, through their language name, only years after the transatlantic slave trade had ended, probably as a result of religious encounters leading up to the colonization of Nigeria. 90 During the period of the slave trade, the Yoruba lived divided into a number of states like Oyo, Egba, Egbado, Ijebu, and Ijesa, located in Southwest Nigeria, and were called outside the region by different terms, such as Nagô in Bahia, Lucumí in Cuba, and Aku in Sierra Leone. 91

Not only did the Atlantic approach contribute to the development of new historical frameworks and perspectives, it also encouraged historians to use traditional sources and methods in more creative and interesting ways. In Freedom Papers: An Atlantic Odyssey in the Age of Emancipation , Rebecca J. Scott and Jean Hébrard trace the paper trail that members of the Tinchant family left behind to reconstruct over multiple generations the saga of an African woman and her family from slavery to freedom. 92 In addition to tracing individuals and families, historians have also paid greater attention to cultural practices embedded in traditions of agriculture, healing, and warfare, which were disseminated around the Atlantic during the period of the slave trade. Judith A. Carney, for example, looked at the African origins of rice cultivation in the Americas, connecting particular rice growing regions in Upper Guinea to their counterparts in places like South Carolina in the United States and Maranhão in Bazil; James H. Sweet examined the intellectual history of the Atlantic world by following the uses and appropriations of African healing practices from Dahomey to Bahia and Portugal; and Manuel Barcia explored the similarities and differences between warfare techniques employed by West African captives, especially from Oyo, in Bahia, and Cuba. 93 Although urban history has a long tradition among historians, most studies have focused on cities and ports in Europe and the Americas. 94 Historians, including Robin Law, Kristin Mann, Mariana Cândido, and Randy Sparks, however, are redressing that imbalance with studies focused on African ports—Ouidah, Lagos, Benguela, and Anomabu—that emerged or expanded during the slave trade era. 95

Finally, although removed from the Atlantic, the very effort of looking at slavery and the slave trade from a broader perspective has influenced studies on these issues in other parts of the world or even within a global framework. Research on the intra-American slave trade has gained a renewed interest with publications like Greg O’Malley’s Final Passages: The Intercolonial Slave Trade of British America, 1619–1807 . 96 The same could be said of the slave trade in the Indian Ocean with works like Richard Allen’s European Slave Trading in the Indian Ocean, 1500–1850 . 97 One central debate that has recently been revived concerns the relationship between capitalism and slavery. 98 Inspired by Eric Williams’s path-breaking work and, more recently, by Dale Tomich’s concept of “second slavery,” which highlights the creation of new zones of slavery in the United States and other parts of the continent during the 19th century , historians, including Sven Beckert, Edward Baptist, and Seth Rockman, are now enthusiastically assessing the connections between the expansion of slavery in that period and the formation of global financial markets and industrial economies in Europe and North America. 99 Clearly, the scholarly potential occasioned by the Atlanticization of slavery studies is still unfolding and should not be underestimated.

Into the Digital Era

The digital revolution sparked a radical change across the historical profession that has had particularly important ramifications for the study of slavery and the slave trade. Despite the major theoretical, methodological, and interpretive differences that divided scholars throughout the 20th century , the means of scholarly communication and dissemination of research during that period remained virtually unchanged: books, journal articles, and very occasionally interviews, opinion pieces, and documentary films enabled scholars to explain their work to each other and, to a much lesser extent, a wider public. The emergence of the internet and its rapid infiltration of academic and everyday life has disrupted this landscape, opening new and once inconceivable opportunities to engage in open-ended inquiry unencumbered by publication deadlines, and to share the fruits of that labor with anyone who has access to the web. The digital turn has also inspired scholars to offer creative visual interpretations of the history of both slavery and the slave trade. Perhaps most importantly, the web has provided a site for the presentation and preservation of digitized archival sources that would previously have been accessible to only those people with the means to visit the repositories that hold them. While the consequences of the digital turn are being actively discussed and debated, it is clear that digital history is here to stay.

Digital projects focusing on slavery and the slave trade emerged in the 1990s and tended to be somewhat rudimentary in both their aims and scope, reflecting the limited capacity of the internet itself and, perhaps more appropriately, scholars’ limited comfort using it. These projects had as their main purpose the collection and presentation of primary sources—scanning and loading onto a web page images of captives, owners, slave ships, and forts that teachers or students had collected for pedagogical purposes. Among the first large-scale initiatives to bring together these scattered materials was Jerome Handler and Michael A. Tuite’s website, The Atlantic Slave Trade and Slave Life in the Americas . 100 Created first as a portal to search through images that Handler had used in lectures, this website grew exponentially over time. From the roughly 200 images organized into ten categories with which the site first launched, it now provides access to 1,280 images arranged under eighteen topical headings. Other digital projects focused on the presentation of scanned archival documents. Libraries and historical societies used the web to advertise their holdings and entice interested viewers to further examine their collections. Many of these sites were free of charge, democratizing access to rare scholarly records—at least for those individuals who had access to the internet.

As the technology associated with digitization has improved, a number of organizations have dedicated vast resources to scaling up digital projects. Though its focus goes well beyond slavery and the slave trade, Google Books has been among the most prominent players in the field. 101 Beginning in the early 2000s, Google quietly began scanning published volumes held in major academic libraries. By 2015 , Google estimated that it had scanned 25 million books—nearly one-fifth of the total number of unique titles ever published. Though copyright laws limit full access to the collection, Google Books is nevertheless unparalleled in its scope and offers unrivaled access to published sources on slavery from the pre-copyright era. Other companies have taken more targeted approaches. The Slavery, Abolition and Social Justice portal, for example, offers access to original archival materials focused primarily, though not exclusively, on the Atlantic World that covers the period between 1490 and 2007 . The project enables users to interface with scans of primary sources and use keyword searches to find relevant materials. 102

As this implies, digitization initiatives have not been limited to the Western world, even if, at times controversially, Western institutions have funded the majority of them. Indeed, one of the enduring consequences of the Atlanticization of slavery scholarship has been the growing dialogue it helped generate between scholars living in or working on areas outside of the Anglo-American world. The British Library’s Endangered Archives Programme is one example: it has supported the digitization of entire archival collections in repositories situated in developing countries, where resources for preservation are extremely limited. 103 Local archivists have become valuable collaborators; young students with interests in digital preservation have gained important training and exposure to scanning methods and technologies. Since the early 2000s, major digital initiatives have been launched or completed in places as wide-ranging as Brazil, Cameroon, Cuba, The Gambia, Sierra Leone, and Saint Helena, with important implications for slavery scholarship. 104 One such example is the Slave Societies Digital Archive , directed by Jane Landers and hosted at Vanderbuilt University, which preserves endangered ecclesiastical and secular documents related to Africans and people of African descent. 105 Since 2007 or so, a truly global conversation about slavery and its long-term effects has been nurtured by more widespread access to relevant archival sources.

The growing sophistication of the internet and its users has transformed digital projects on slavery and the slave trade. Websites now go well beyond mere presentations of scanned primary sources. They tend to emphasize interactivity, encouraging site visitors to search through and manipulate data to generate new research insights. Some projects employ “crowdsourcing,” partnering with the public or soliciting data or assistance from site visitors to further a project’s reach. African Origins , for instance, provides to the public some 91,000 records of captives rescued from slave ships in the 19th century , including their indigenous African names. 106 Historians, with the help of other researchers, particularly those people familiar with African languages, have been identifying to which languages these names belong and thereby tracing the inland, linguistic origins of thousands of slaves forced into the Atlantic during the 19th century . 107 This has helped expand insights into slavery and the slave trade well beyond the limited confines of the ivory tower. Moreover, the internet has the added benefit of providing a space for individuals who are passionate about history but whose careers limit their abilities to publish books and articles to share their knowledge with a large pool of readers.

Few digital initiatives have done more for slavery scholarship than Voyages: The Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade Database . The Voyages site is the product of decades of collaborative research into the transatlantic slave trade. Building on Curtin’s Census , it now provides access to information on nearly 36,000 unique slave voyages that operated between the 1510s and 1867 . The site is made possible by the basic reality that, given the vast amount of money they laid out, owners and operators of slave vessels carefully documented many aspects of slaving excursions. Some of the details captured in written records lend themselves to coding and quantification: the names of captains and owners; the places to which slave ships went; the numbers of enslaved people loaded onto and forced off of slave ships; the ratios of males to females and adults to children among captives; and the prices paid for enslaved people. The vast amount of data to which the site provides free access has enabled scholars focused on virtually any aspect of the slave trade or slavery to benefit from and contribute to the Voyages project. Among its most important features is the site’s capacity to expand or revise its records based on contributions from users who uncover new or contradictory evidence. 108

Based in part on the Voyages model—or, in some cases, as a critical response to it—since the 2000s, historical research has witnessed the creation and expansion of important digital projects about enslaved Africans and their descendants. Slave Biographies: Atlantic Database Network , a project spearheaded by Gwendolyn M. Hall and Walter Hawthorne from Michigan State University, offers an open access data repository of information on the identities of enslaved people in the Atlantic World. 109 Liberated Africans , developed by Henry Lovejoy at the University of Colorado, Boulder, brings together information about the lives of some 250,000 Africans rescued from slave ships between 1807 and 1896 . 110 Final Passages , a project under development by Greg O’Malley and Alex Borucki at the University of California system, plans to provide a database of the intra-American slave trade to be deployed on the same platform as Slave Voyages . 111 And what to say of Enslaved: People of the Historic Slave Trade , winner of a $1.5 million grant from the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation? The project seeks to bring such digital resources together by focusing on individuals who were enslaved, owned slaves, or participated in slave trading at any time between the beginning and the end of the transatlantic slave trade. 112 It is no doubt the epitome in amassing and interconnecting historical data. Conversations about long-term institutional support for these sites and the data on which they are based—a central and underappreciated aspect of digital history—have also begun to take place in earnest. That they are happening at all is indicative of the revolutionary impact that the digital turn has had on the profession.

All in all, it is no easy task to synthesize decades of research on the history of Atlantic slavery and the slave trade. Although relatively new in comparison to more established fields of Western history, it has grown quickly, amassing a significant body of literature that incorporates some of the most sophisticated methodologies available. Historians have proven so adaptable in their approaches and uses of sources that it is nearly impossible to indicate the direction in which the field is moving. Moreover, in the wake of movements such as Black Lives Matter and Rhodes Must Fall, public interest has turned again to the complex and thorny issue of reparations. Consequently, historians have had an unprecedented opportunity to engage with the public on this question and related ones concerning how societies represent and memorialize the history of slavery. In 2013 , Laurent Dubois noticed in an opinion piece in The New York Times that calls for reparations for slavery and the slave trade in the Caribbean offered an important opportunity to face the multiple ways in which the past continues to shape the present. 113 In the following year, Ta-Nehisi Coates published a cover article in The Atlantic making a powerful case for reparations in the United States. According to him, “until we reckon with our compounding moral debts, America will never be whole.” 114 A leading advocate for public memorializing of slavery, Ana Lúcia Araújo, has recently published a book dedicated exclusively to the issue of reparations for slavery and the slave trade. 115 While the most recent iteration of this debate draws on fresh materials and perspectives, Araújo notes that “since the eighteenth century, enslaved and freed individuals started conceptualizing the idea of reparations in correspondence, pamphlets, public speeches, slave narratives, and judicial claims, written in English, French, Spanish, and Portuguese.” 116 That such issues continue to spark passionate debates and scholarship provides a strong indication of the enduring relevance of slavery’s past to the shaping of the present.

Acknowledgments

The authors would like to thank Alex Borucki, David Eltis, Greg O’Malley, and Nicholas Radburn for their comments on earlier versions of this article. All interpretations and conclusions reached here are, of course, the authors’ responsibility.

Slavery in America

By: History.com Editors

Published: April 25, 2024

Millions of enslaved Africans contributed to the establishment of colonies in the Americas and continued laboring in various regions of the Americas after their independence, including the United States. Many consider a significant starting point to slavery in America to be 1619 , when the privateer The White Lion brought 20 enslaved Africans ashore in the British colony of Jamestown , Virginia . The crew had seized the Africans from the Portuguese slave ship São João Bautista. Yet, enslaved Africans had been present in regions such as Florida, that are part of present-day United States nearly one century before.

Throughout the 17th century, European settlers in North America turned to enslaved Africans as a cheaper, more plentiful labor source than Indigenous populations and indentured servants, who were mostly poor Europeans.

Existing estimates establish that Europeans and American slave traders transported nearly 12.5 million enslaved Africans to the Americas. Of this number approximately 10.7 million disembarked alive in the Americas. During the 18th century alone, approximately 6.5 million enslaved persons were transported to the Americas. This forced migration deprived the African continent of some of its healthiest and ablest men and women.

In the 17th and 18th centuries, enslaved Africans worked mainly on the tobacco, rice and indigo plantations of the southern Atlantic coast, from the Chesapeake Bay colonies of Maryland and Virginia south to Georgia.

Slavery in Plantations and Cities

In the 17th and 18th centuries, enslaved Africans worked mainly on the tobacco, rice and indigo plantations of the southern coast, from the Chesapeake Bay colonies of Maryland and Virginia south to Georgia. Starting 1662, the colony of Virginia and then other English colonies established that the legal status of a slave was inherited through the mother. As a result, the children of enslaved women legally became slaves.

Before the rise of the American Revolution , the first debates to abolish slavery emerged. Black and white abolitionists contributed to the enactment of new legislation gradually abolishing slavery in some northern states such as Vermont and Pennsylvania. However, these laws emancipated only the newly born children of enslaved women.

Did you know? One of the first martyrs to the cause of American patriotism was Crispus Attucks, a former enslaved man who was killed by British soldiers during the Boston Massacre of 1770. Some 5,000 Black soldiers and sailors fought on the American side during the Revolutionary War.

But after the end of the American Revolutionary War , slavery was maintained in the new states. The new U.S. Constitution tacitly acknowledged the institution of slavery, when it determined that three out of every five enslaved people were counted when determining a state's total population for the purposes of taxation and representation in Congress.

Throughout the 17th and 18th centuries, European and American slave merchants purchased enslaved Africans who were transported to the Americas and forced into slavery in the American colonies and exploited to work in the production of crops such as tobacco, wheat, indigo, rice, sugar, and cotton. Enslaved men and women also performed work in northern cities such as Boston and New York, and in southern cities such as Charleston, Richmond, and Baltimore.

By the mid-19th century, America’s westward expansion and the abolition movement provoked a great debate over slavery that would tear the nation apart in the bloody Civil War . Though the Union victory freed the nation’s four million enslaved people, the legacy of slavery continued to influence American history, from the Reconstruction to the civil rights movement that emerged a century after emancipation and beyond.

In the late 18th century, the mechanization of the textile industry in England led to a huge demand for American cotton, a southern crop planted and harvested by enslaved people, but whose production was limited by the difficulty of removing the seeds from raw cotton fibers by hand.

But in 1793, a U.S.-born schoolteacher named Eli Whitney invented the cotton gin , a simple mechanized device that efficiently removed the seeds. His device was widely copied, and within a few years, the South transitioned from the large-scale production of tobacco to that of cotton, a switch that reinforced the region’s dependence on enslaved labor.

Slavery was never widespread in the North as it was in the South, but many northern businessmen grew rich on the slave trade and investments in southern plantations. Although gradual abolition emancipated newborns since the late 18th century, slavery was only abolished in New York in 1827, and in Connecticut in 1848.

Though the U.S. Congress outlawed the African slave trade in 1808, the domestic trade flourished, and the enslaved population in the United States nearly tripled over the next 50 years. By 1860 it had reached nearly 4 million, with more than half living in the cotton-producing states of the South.

Living Conditions of Enslaved People

Enslaved people in the antebellum South constituted about one-third of the southern population. Most lived on large plantations or small farms; many enslavers owned fewer than 50 enslaved people.

Landowners sought to make their enslaved completely dependent on them through a system of restrictive codes. They were usually prohibited from learning to read and write, and their behavior and movement were restricted.

Many enslavers raped women they held in slavery, and rewarded obedient behavior with favors, while rebellious enslaved people were brutally punished. A strict hierarchy among the enslaved (from privileged house workers and skilled artisans down to lowly field hands) helped keep them divided and less likely to organize against their enslavers.

Marriages between enslaved men and women had no legal basis, but many did marry and raise large families. Most owners of enslaved workers encouraged this practice, but nonetheless did not usually hesitate to divide families by sale or removal.

Slave Rebellions

Enslaved people organized r ebellions as early as the 18th century. In 1739, enslaved people led the Stono Rebellion in South Carolina, the largest slave rebellion during the colonial era in North America. Other rebellions followed, including the one led by Gabriel Prosser in Richmond in 1800 and by Denmark Vesey in Charleston in 1822. These uprisings were brutally repressed.

The revolt that most terrified enslavers was that led by Nat Turner in Southampton County, Virginia, in August 1831. Turner’s group, which eventually numbered as many 50 Black men, murdered some 55 white people in two days before armed resistance from local white people and the arrival of state militia forces overwhelmed them.

Like with previous rebellions, in the aftermath of the Nat Turner’s Rebellion, slave owners feared similar insurrections and southern states further passed legislation prohibiting the movement and assembly of enslaved people.

Abolitionist Movement

As slavery expanded during the second half of the 18th century, a growing abolitionist movement emerged in the North.

From the 1830s to the 1860s, the movement to abolish slavery in America gained strength, led by formerly enslaved people such as Frederick Douglass and white supporters such as William Lloyd Garrison , founder of the radical newspaper The Liberator .

While many abolitionists based their activism on the belief that slaveholding was a sin, others were more inclined to the non-religious “free-labor” argument, which held that slaveholding was regressive, inefficient and made little economic sense.

Black abolitionists and antislavery northerners led meetings and created newspapers. They also had begun helping enslaved people escape from southern plantations to the North via a loose network of safe houses as early as the 1780s. This practice, known as the Underground Railroad , gained real momentum in the 1830s.

Conductors like Harriet Tubman guided escapees on their journey North, and “ stationmasters ” included such prominent figures as Frederick Douglass, Secretary of State William H. Seward and Pennsylvania congressman Thaddeus Stevens. Although no one knows for sure how many men, women, and children escaped slavery through the Underground Railroad, it was in the thousands ( estimates range from 25,000 to 100,000).

The success of the Underground Railroad helped spread abolitionist feelings in the North. It also undoubtedly increased sectional tensions, convincing pro-slavery southerners of their northern countrymen’s determination to defeat the institution that sustained them.

Missouri Compromise

America’s explosive growth—and its expansion westward in the first half of the 19th century—would provide a larger stage for the growing conflict over slavery in America and its future limitation or expansion.

In 1820, a bitter debate over the federal government’s right to restrict slavery over Missouri’s application for statehood ended in a compromise: Missouri was admitted to the Union as a slave state, Maine as a free state and all western territories north of Missouri’s southern border were to be free soil.

Although the Missouri Compromise was designed to maintain an even balance between slave and free states, it was only temporarily able to help quell the forces of sectionalism.

Kansas-Nebraska Act

In 1850, another tenuous compromise was negotiated to resolve the question of slavery in territories won during the Mexican-American War .

Four years later, however, the Kansas-Nebraska Act opened all new territories to slavery by asserting the rule of popular sovereignty over congressional edict, leading pro- and anti-slavery forces to battle it out—with considerable bloodshed —in the new state of Kansas.

Outrage in the North over the Kansas-Nebraska Act spelled the downfall of the old Whig Party and the birth of a new, all-northern Republican Party . In 1857, the Dred Scott decision by the Supreme Court (involving an enslaved man who sued for his freedom on the grounds that his enslaver had taken him into free territory) effectively repealed the Missouri Compromise by ruling that all territories were open to slavery.

John Brown’s Raid on Harper’s Ferry

In 1859, two years after the Dred Scott decision, an event occurred that would ignite passions nationwide over the issue of slavery.

John Brown’s raid on Harper’s Ferry , Virginia—in which the abolitionist and 22 men, including five Black men and three of Brown’s sons raided and occupied a federal arsenal—resulted in the deaths of 10 people and Brown’s hanging.

The insurrection exposed the growing national rift over slavery: Brown was hailed as a martyred hero by northern abolitionists but was vilified as a mass murderer in the South.

The South would reach the breaking point the following year, when Republican candidate Abraham Lincoln was elected as president. Within three months, seven southern states had seceded to form the Confederate States of America ; four more would follow after the Civil War began.

Though Lincoln’s anti-slavery views were well established, the central Union war aim at first was not to abolish slavery, but to preserve the United States as a nation.

Abolition became a goal only later, due to military necessity, growing anti-slavery sentiment in the North and the self-emancipation of many people who fled enslavement as Union troops swept through the South.

When Did Slavery End?

On September 22, 1862, Lincoln issued a preliminary emancipation proclamation, and on January 1, 1863, he made it official that “slaves within any State, or designated part of a State…in rebellion,…shall be then, thenceforward, and forever free.”

By freeing some 3 million enslaved people in the rebel states, the Emancipation Proclamation deprived the Confederacy of the bulk of its labor forces and put international public opinion strongly on the Union side.

Though the Emancipation Proclamation didn’t officially end all slavery in America—that would happen with the passage of the 13th Amendment after the Civil War’s end in 1865—some 186,000 Black soldiers would join the Union Army, and about 38,000 lost their lives.

The Legacy of Slavery

The 13th Amendment, adopted on December 18, 1865, officially abolished slavery, but freed Black peoples’ status in the post-war South remained precarious, and significant challenges awaited during the Reconstruction period.

Previously enslaved men and women received the rights of citizenship and the “equal protection” of the Constitution in the 14th Amendment and the right to vote in the 15th Amendment , but these provisions of the Constitution were often ignored or violated, and it was difficult for Black citizens to gain a foothold in the post-war economy thanks to restrictive Black codes and regressive contractual arrangements such as sharecropping .

Despite seeing an unprecedented degree of Black participation in American political life, Reconstruction was ultimately frustrating for African Americans, and the rebirth of white supremacy —including the rise of racist organizations such as the Ku Klux Klan (KKK)—had triumphed in the South by 1877.

Almost a century later, resistance to the lingering racism and discrimination in America that began during the slavery era led to the civil rights movement of the 1960s, which achieved the greatest political and social gains for Black Americans since Reconstruction.

Ana Lucia Araujo , a historian of slavery and the Atlantic slave trade, edited and contributed to this article. Dr. Araujo is currently Professor of History at Howard University in Washington, D.C., and member of the International Scientific Committee of the UNESCO Routes of Enslaved Peoples Projects. Her three more recent books are Reparations for Slavery and the Slave Trade: A Transnational and Comparative History , The Gift: How Objects of Prestige Shaped the Atlantic Slave Trade and Colonialism , and Humans in Shackles: An Atlantic History of Slavery .

Sign up for Inside History

Get HISTORY’s most fascinating stories delivered to your inbox three times a week.

By submitting your information, you agree to receive emails from HISTORY and A+E Networks. You can opt out at any time. You must be 16 years or older and a resident of the United States.

More details : Privacy Notice | Terms of Use | Contact Us

Slavery and the Civil War Essay

To find inspiration for your paper and overcome writer’s block
As a source of information (ensure proper referencing)
As a template for you assignment

Theme Essays. Diversity

Extra credit option. reconstruction, works cited.

During the period of 1820-1860, the life of white and black people in the South depended on developing the Institute of slavery which shaped not only social but also economic life of the region. The Institute of slavery was primarily for the Southern states, and this feature helped to distinguish the South from the other regions of the USA.

Slavery played the key role in shaping the economic and social life of the South because it influenced the trade and economic relations in the region as well as the social and class structure representing slave owners, white farmers without slaves, and slaves as the main labor force in the region.

The development of the South during the period of 1820-1860 was based on growing cotton intensively. To guarantee the enormous exports of cotton, it was necessary to rely on slaves as the main cheap or almost free workforce. The farmers of the South grew different crops, but the economic success was associated with the farms of those planters who lived in the regions with fertile soil and focused on growing cotton basing on slavery.

Thus, the prosperity of this or that white farmer and planter depended on using slaves in his farm or plantation. Slaves working for planters took the lowest social positions as well as free slaves living in cities whose economic situation was also problematic. The white population of the South was divided into slave owners and yeoman farmers who had no slaves.

Thus, having no opportunities to use the advantages of slavery, yeoman farmers relied on their families’ powers, and they were poorer in comparison with planters (Picture 1). However, not all the planters were equally successful in their economic situation. Many planters owned only a few slaves, and they also had to work at their plantations or perform definite duties.

Slaves were also different in their status because of the functions performed. From this point, the social stratification was necessary not only for dividing the Southern population into black slaves and white owners but also to demonstrate the differences within these two main classes (Davidson et al.).

As a result, different social classes had various cultures. It is important to note that slaves were more common features in spite of their status in families, and they were united regarding the culture which was reflected in their religion, vision, and songs. The difference in the social status of the white population was more obvious, and the single common feature was the prejudice and discrimination against slaves.

Picture 1. Yeoman Farmer’s House

The Civil War became the real challenge for the USA because it changed all the structures and institutions of the country reforming the aspects of the political, economic, and social life. Furthermore, the Civil War brought significant losses and sufferings for both the representatives of the Northern and Southern armies.

It is important to note that the situation of the Union in the war was more advantageous in comparison with the position of the Confederacy during the prolonged period of the war actions.

As a result, the South suffered from more significant economic and social changes as well as from extreme losses in the war in comparison with the North’s costs. Thus, the main impact of the Civil War was the abolition of slavery which changed the economic and social structures of the South and contributed to shifting the focus on the role of federal government.

The Civil War resulted in abolishing slavery and preserving the political unity of the country. Nevertheless, these positive outcomes were achieved at the expense of significant losses in the number of population and in promoting more sufferings for ordinary people. A lot of the Confederacy’s soldiers died at the battlefields, suffering from extreme wounds and the lack of food because of the problems with weapon and food provision.

During the war, the Union focused on abolishing slaves who were proclaimed free. Thus, former slaves from the Southern states were inclined to find jobs in the North or join the Union army.

As a result, the army of the Confederacy also began to suffer from the lack of forces (Davidson et al.). Moreover, the situation was problematic off the battlefield because all the issues of food provision and work at plantations and farms challenged women living in the Southern states.

The forces of the Union army were more balanced, and their losses were less significant than in the Southern states. Furthermore, the end of the war did not change the structure of the social life in the North significantly. The impact of the war was more important for the Southerners who had to build their economic and social life without references to slavery.

The next important change was the alternations in the social role of women. Many women had to work at farms in the South and to perform as nurses in the North (Picture 2). The vision of the women’s role in the society was changed in a way.

However, in spite of the fact that the population of the South had to rebuild the social structure and adapt to the new social and economic realities, the whole economic situation was changed for better with references to intensifying the international trade. Furthermore, the abolishment of slavery was oriented to the social and democratic progress in the country.

Picture 2. “Our Women and the War”. Harper’s Weekly, 1862

Diversity is one of the main characteristic features of the American nation from the early periods of its formation. The American nation cannot be discussed as a stable one because the formation of the nation depends on the active migration processes intensifying the general diversity. As a result, the American nation is characterized by the richness of cultures, values, and lifestyles.

This richness is also typical for the early period of the American history when the country’s population was diverse in relation to ethnicity, cultures, religion, and social status. From this point, diversity directly shaped the American nation because the country’s population never was identical.

The Americans respected diversity if the question was associated with the problem of first migrations and the Americans’ difference from the English population. To win independence, it was necessary to admit the difference from the English people, but diversity was also the trigger for conflicts between the Americans, Englishmen, and Frenchmen as well as Indian tribes.

The ethic diversity was not respected by the first Americans. The further importations of slaves to America worsened the situation, and ethnic diversity increased, involving cultural and social diversity.

Diversity was respected only with references to the negative consequences of slave importation. Thus, the Southerners focused on using black slaves for development of their plantations (Davidson et al.). From this point, white planers concentrated on the difference of blacks and used it for discrimination.

Furthermore, slavery also provoked the cultural and lifestyle diversity between the South and the North of the country which resulted in the Civil War because of impossibility to share different values typical for the Southerners and Northerners. Moreover, the diversity in lifestyles of the Southerners was deeper because it depended on the fact of having or not slaves.

Great religious diversity was also typical for the nation. White population followed different branches of Christianity relating to their roots, and black people developed their own religious movements contributing to diversifying the religious life of the Americans (Davidson et al.).

Thus, the aspects of diversity are reflected in each sphere of the first Americans’ life with references to differences in ethnicities, followed religions, cultures, values, lifestyles, and social patterns. This diversity also provoked a lot of conflicts in the history of the nation.

The role of women in the American society changed depending on the most important political and social changes. The periods of reforms and transformations also promoted the changes in the social positions of women. The most notable changes are typical for the period of the Jacksonian era and for the Civil War period.

The changes in the role of women are closely connected with the development of women’s movements during the 1850s and with the focus on women’s powers off the battlefield during the Civil War period.

During the Jacksonian era, women began to play significant roles in the religious and social life of the country. Having rather limited rights, women could realize their potentials only in relation to families and church work. That is why, many women paid much attention to their church duties and responsibilities.

Later, the church work was expanded, and women began to organize special religious groups in order to contribute to reforming definite aspects of the Church’s progress. Women also were the main members of the prayer meetings, and much attention was drawn to the charity activities and assistance to hospitals (Davidson et al.).

Women also played the significant role in the development of revivalism as the characteristic feature of the period. Moreover, the active church work and the focus on forming organizations was the first step to the progress of the women’s rights movements.

It is important to note that the participation of women in the social life was rather limited during a long period of time that is why membership and belonging to different church organizations as well as development of women’s rights movements contributed to increasing the role of women within the society. Proclaiming the necessity of abolishment, socially active women also concentrated on the idea of suffrage which was achieved later.

The period of the 1850s is closely connected with the growth of the women’s rights movements because it was the period of stating to the democratic rights and freedoms within the society (Davidson et al.). The next important event is the Civil War. The war influenced the position of the Southern white and black women significantly, revealing their powers and ability to overcome a lot of challenges.

The end of the Civil War provided women with the opportunity to achieve all the proclaimed ideals of the women’s rights movements along with changing the position of male and female slaves in the American society.

The development of the American nation is based on pursuing certain ideals and following definite values. The main values which are greatly important for the Americans are associated with the notions which had the significant meaning during the periods of migration and creating the independent state. The two main values are opportunity and equality.

These values are also fixed in the Constitution of the country in order to emphasize their extreme meaning for the whole nation.

Opportunity and equality are the values which are shaped with references to the economic and social ideals because all the Americans are equal, and each American should have the opportunity to achieve the individual goal. Nevertheless, in spite of the proclaimed ideals, the above-mentioned values were discussed during a long period of time only with references to the white population of the country.

The other values typical for the Americans are also based not on the religious, moral or cultural ideals but on the social aspects. During the Jacksonian era, the Americans focused on such values as the democratic society. Following the ideals of rights and freedoms, the American population intended to realize them completely within the developed democratic society (Davidson et al.).

Moreover, these ideals were correlated with such values as equality and opportunity. It is necessary to pay attention to the fact that for many Americans the notions of democratic society, opportunity, and equality were directly connected with the economic growth. That is why, during long periods of time Americans concentrated on achieving freedoms along with pursuing the economic prosperity.

Thus, it is possible to determine such key values which regulate the social attitudes and inclinations of the Americans as equality and opportunity, freedoms and rights. In spite of the fact the USA was the country with the determined role of religion in the society, moral and religious aspects were not proclaimed as the basic values of the nation because of the prolonged focus of the Americans on their independence and prosperity.

From this point, opportunity, equality, freedoms, and rights are discussed as more significant values for the developed nation than the religious principles. The creation of the state independent from the influence of the British Empire resulted in determining the associated values and ideals which were pursued by the Americans during prolonged periods of the nation’s development.

The period of Reconstruction was oriented to adapting African Americans to the realities of the free social life and to rebuilding the economic structure of the South. The end of the Civil War guaranteed the abolishment of slavery, but the question of black people’s equality to the whites was rather controversial.

That is why, the period of Reconstruction was rather complex and had two opposite outcomes for the African Americans’ further life in the society and for the general economic progress of the states. Reconstruction was successful in providing such opportunities for African Americans as education and a choice to live in any region or to select the employer.

However, Reconstruction can also be discussed as a failure because the issues of racism were not overcome during the period, and the era of slavery was changed with the era of strict social segregation leading to significant discrimination of black people.

The positive changes in the life of African Americans after the Civil War were connected with receiving more opportunities for the social progress. Thus, many public schools were opened for the black population in order to increase the level of literacy (Picture 3). Furthermore, the impossibility to support the Southerners’ plantations without the free work of slaves led to changing the economic focus.

Thus, industrialization of the region could contribute to creating more workplaces for African Americans (Davidson et al.). Moreover, the racial and social equality should also be supported with references to providing more political rights for African Americans.

Reconstruction was the period of observing many black politicians at the American political arena. The question of blacks’ suffrage became one of the most discussed issues. From this point, during the period of Reconstruction African Americans did first steps on the path of equality.

Nevertheless, Reconstruction was also a great failure. The South remained unchanged in relation to the social relations between the whites and blacks. After the Civil War, segregation was intensified. The economic and social pressure as well as discrimination against the blacks was based on the developed concept of racism (Davidson et al.).

The Southerners preserved the prejudiced attitude toward the blacks, and prejudice and discrimination became the main challenge for African Americans in all the spheres of the life.

In spite of definite successes of Reconstruction, African Americans suffered from the results of segregation and discrimination, and they were prevented from changing their economic and social status.

Picture 3. Public Schools

Davidson, James, Brian DeLay, Christine Leigh Heyrman, Mark Lytle, and Michael Stoff. US: A Narrative History . USA: McGraw-Hill, 2008. Print.

A Georgia Sharecropper’s Story of Forced Labor
History: Woodrow Wilson House Museum
American Reconstruction Period
American History: Reconstruction, 1865 -1877
The Concept of Reconstruction
The Los Angeles Zoot-Suit Riots and Its Effects
Literary Works' Views on Slavery in the United States
The Main Persons in Native American History
"From Migrant to Acadian: A North American Border People, 1604–1755" by Naomi Griffiths
The Black Hawk War
Chicago (A-D)
Chicago (N-B)

IvyPanda. (2020, March 15). Slavery and the Civil War. https://ivypanda.com/essays/slavery-and-the-civil-war/

"Slavery and the Civil War." IvyPanda , 15 Mar. 2020, ivypanda.com/essays/slavery-and-the-civil-war/.

IvyPanda . (2020) 'Slavery and the Civil War'. 15 March.

IvyPanda . 2020. "Slavery and the Civil War." March 15, 2020. https://ivypanda.com/essays/slavery-and-the-civil-war/.

1. IvyPanda . "Slavery and the Civil War." March 15, 2020. https://ivypanda.com/essays/slavery-and-the-civil-war/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "Slavery and the Civil War." March 15, 2020. https://ivypanda.com/essays/slavery-and-the-civil-war/.

Slavery - Essay Examples And Topic Ideas For Free

Slavery involves the ownership and forced labor of one person by another. Essays on slavery could explore its historical occurrences, the impact of slavery on contemporary racial relations, or discuss the legacies and traumas of slavery. It could also delve into the various forms of modern-day slavery and human trafficking. A vast selection of complimentary essay illustrations pertaining to Slavery you can find in Papersowl database. You can use our samples for inspiration to write your own essay, research paper, or just to explore a new topic for yourself.

What is Worse than Slavery

Worse than Slavery , by David Oshinsky tells a sensitive and graphic storyline about the South. My first impression from just looking at the book made me think, what could be worse than slavery? Is it even possible for something to be just as gruesome as slavery? To be completely honest, before reading this book, I didn't know all the ins and outs about slavery, let alone about the Parchman State Penitentiary but reading this book really opened my eyes […]

The Development of America and the Impact of Slavery

In the time that Slavery was happening before the years of the Civil War era, America had continued to develop into their own independent country from the British. Even though many factors had been involved in the growth of America, Slavery had a major role in the development of America itself. The pronounced economy, idea of liberty, and culture would develop as slavery took place in the new land. Lonnie Bunch III, director of the Smithsonian quotes, African Americans helped […]

History: the Fall of the Roman Empire

Introduction The Roman Empire is said to have crumpled when the German brutes toppled the last Emperor, Romulus Augustus in 476 and presented a more equitable type of government which was fleeting. There exist many reasons regarding the fall of the Roman Empire. Every reason seemed to be intertwined with the other. Some of those who try and explain the fall of this empire blamed the initiation of Christianity. Constantine the Great initiated Christianity in 337 AD. Some people place […]

We will write an essay sample crafted to your needs.

A History of Slavery in the United States

The number of slaves being held in the United States increased significantly during the 18th and early 19th centuries. Up to this point, slavery was primarily an institution limited to white men and few women. However, as whites became more prosperous, they began importing large numbers of free or indentured servants from Africa who were brought over as slaves for economic gain (El Hame). The public developed an increasing dislike for both these newcomers and their descendants - termed “mulattos” […]

Legacy of Slavery: from Juneteenth to Modern-Day Mass Incarceration

Some slaves new they were slaves and some didn't.Though President Abraham Lincoln put an end to slavery, slaves in Texas had no knowledge of their freedom until two and a half years later. On June 19, 1865 Union soldiers came to Galveston and declared the end of the Civil War, with General granger reading a lou a special declaration that ordered the freeing of 200,000 slaves in the state. Because of the major set back, many African Americans started a […]

The Definition of Racism

Racism has many definitions. However, in the past, people were identified by their country's geographic place, not by their skin color. This essay about the definition of racism will explore how it has changed over time. Racism can appear in many ways. The most common racism definition is that of a system of dominance, power, and privilege that is rooted in the historical oppression of subordinated groups that the dominant group views as inferior, deviant, or undesirable. The dominant group […]

How did Music Enhance the Experience of Slavery

African American slavery is remembered for its constant abuse and brutality towards African Americans. One aspect that is less known is the music. The music used during slavery and in the context of slavery enhanced the experience for both slave and slave master. Music in slavery came from different sources. There were many famous slave songs such as “Roll Jordan Roll” and “Follow The Drunkin’ Gourd”. As well as slaves who had musical talent, expressing their talent to their master […]

Sharecropping Better than Slavery

The historical fiction story Roll of Thunder hear my cry provides us with adequate information about sharecropping. It goes into detail about the poverty prevalent in sharecropping families and the struggle to escape its grasp. Take the quote, A tall, emaciated-looking boy popped suddenly from a forest trail and swung a thin arm around Stacey. It was T.J. Avery. His younger brother Claude emerged a moment later, smiling weakly as if it pained him to do so. Neither boy had […]

Jamaican Culture

The fashion industry is one which is evident in all areas in the world. In Jamaica, for instance, modern day fashion is encompassed within the ordinary dress code of people all over the country. Most of the clothes worn by people in Jamaica reflect a significant part of their cultural and religious beliefs. However, this fashion sense grows from their connection with one fashionably renowned African country, Ghana. Fashion design and contemporary wear in Jamaica is closely related to the […]

Slavery and Racism in “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn”

The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn is absolutely relating a message to readers about the ills of slavery but this is a complex matter. On the one hand, the only truly good and reliable character is Jim who, a slave, is subhuman. Also, twain wrote this book after slavery had been abolished, therefore, the fact that is significant. There are still several traces of some degree of racism in the novel, including the use of the n word and his tendency […]

Modern Slavery

Imagine stopping at the red light, you see this youthful face, standing at the corner of the street. You notice her high heels and rather skimpy clothes and you immediately and consciously register her as a streetwalker. All of a sudden, all the wrongdoings in the world and lack of character notions develop in your head pertaining to her. You see her low morals screaming loud and clear, you see the whore she is. All this thought process going on […]

The American Revolution

Role of slaves and Native Americans in the RevolutionThousands of African slaves and the Native American involvement in the fight for independence against the British colonial masters. Most of them were actively involved in the forefront of the war. They refused to stand aside and took the side of the war that they felt had an upper arm in winning and of course the one that offered better terms of their freedom when the war is won. The war was […]

The Impact of Slavery

The participation of England in the slave-trade began in the early 16th century, with the country, on par with Portugal, being the most successful in the trading business until the abolishment of Slavery in the UK in 1807. The original interest of the British traders was more-so with the produce from within Africa, such as ivory and gold, rather than the people of Africa itself. The interest shifted however when the demand for labourers increased and rich British figures became […]

Why Slavery was the Engine of American Economic Growth

America views slavery in a negative perspective. It's not very known that there were some positives aspects that benefited America's economy. From the years 1619 to 1865, slavery became very important to the South because it supported the economic side of agriculture. The slave-based economy was somewhat separate from the market revolution. If it wasn't for slavery, the North wouldn't have been able to grow when industrializing the cotton textile. Cotton textile was one of the first industrially producing businesses […]

The Reformation Evangelicalism and the British Anti-Slavery Movement

Throughout the last 500 years, there have been several great revivals of Christian evangelism, specifically with regards to human rights. Christians, particularly evangelicals, have been at the forefront of many social movements that would in the modern parlance be deemed social justice movements, such as the anti-slavery movement, Prohibition, and the broad, all encompassing poor relief of the Victorian Era. One of the most notable “ and most well documented “ of the aforementioned Christian humanitarian movements was the anti-slavery […]

The Issues of Slavery: Reflection in Literature

The age of Romanticism is characterized not only by the growth of cultural development of human society but also by the ongoing debates about the maintenance of the slave market and promotion of abolition ideas. There is much evidence that advocates on both sides of the issue relied on the moral and economic arguments for their positions. Different authors like, Mary Prince and Maria Edgeworth, take different positions on slavery because they view slavery in different ways and discuss different […]

Slave Narrative to the Black Lives Matter Movement

Black lives matter can be considered as an international movement, which has its origin in the African-American community. The primary objective of this movement is to campaign against systematic racism and violence towards the black people (Richardson, Elaine, and Alice 30). Most of these cases of violence and systematic racism were most evident among the slaves. Therefore, black lives matter movement was formed to help address some of the problems that slaves undergo. There were protests, which were held by […]

Slavery and Immigration

Life in the 16th century was tough mostly if you were a slave or servant. The world came a long way from when slave start to the end of it. It caused a bloody war where many people lost their lives, fighting for their right and believes. The North was a big attribute to this whole situation. It all started when a ship brought over 20 African slaves to America. People started noticing the New World, and they all wanted […]

What is Modern Slavery?

Many corporations today rely on the forced-employment of American prison inmates as a source of inexpensive labor. Most people believe the United States abolished slavery through the enactment of the thirteenth amendment, although this article clearly states that people can be subjugated into what would otherwise be unjust working-conditions if they have been sentenced to prison-time. The 13th Amendment states: Neither slavery nor involuntary servitude, except as a punishment for crime whereof the party shall have been duly convicted, shall […]

How did Slavery Shape Modern Society?

Slavery has never been abolished from America's way of thinking. (Nina Simone) Slavery still exist till this day, from forced labor, sex trafficking, debt bondage, child soldiers, and domestic servitude. Although slavery was abolished in 1865 in the United States, slavery continues to be a worldwide issue from forced child labor, sex trafficking, and debt bondage. Thousands of people suffer every year resulting in injury, kidnapping, and even death so the question remains does slavery still exist to this day? […]

Was Slavery the Cause of the Civil War Essay

The Civil War is a war that is taught about in every school throughout the United States of America, no matter if it’s the first grade or your senior year of college, you’ve heard about it every year in school since kindergarten in some form or another. The nation split into two parts. the Union also known as “the North” and the Confederate States of American, or just “The South”. It was a war that shaped history, the nation could […]

Making Racism Obsolete

Does racism still exist? Some would say no?, but some would agree that racism is a cut that won't heal. Molefi Kete Asante is a professor at Temple University and has written many books during his career. In this analysis I will dissect Asante's work covering racism from the past, present and the future moving forward. Asante argues that America is divided between two divisions, the Promise and the Wilderness. Historically, African Americans has been at a disadvantage politically, socially, […]

Racism and Slavery

During the colonial period, Americans came up with the idea to bring African men and women overseas and use them as slaves. The effects of slavery on African Americans were enormous, and the white men got higher ranked in the hierarchy than the back men because of the colour of their skin. In order to discuss the impact that slavery has had on today’s society, you need to first address why it actually occurred. During the 17th and 18th century, […]

Why is Slavery Wrong

Allow me to express to you why slavery was, is, and always will be wrong. Slaves went through drastic living conditions, treated as less than human, and even had no rights compared to whites during this time. Slavery is one of the foulest works of the 17th century as it is made very clear through the many novels and narratives about slavery as well as the African Americans who lived through it. Slavery should have never transpired at all and […]

Slavery in the South Vs North

Whether America is being praised or looked down upon, one indisputable fact is America has done great things. Some good and some bad, but great. It is also indisputable that every decision has made America what it is today. Especially in terms of slavery. Even though it may have been one of the most unethical practices America has ever partaken in, it is also without a doubt the most contributing factor to the foundation of the US. Back when the […]

Slavery Codes and Laws

Slavery in the American history is both clear and ambiguous. Enslaved people were property owned by white people, treated as property and traded regularly. Although this marked a tragedy in the American history, the story of slavery still affects a lot of US resident till today. With the growth of slaves' numbers there emerged the need to legalize, control and keep track of all slaves in America, thus our topic for this research paper. The Slavery Laws designed to keep […]

Racism in the United States of America

Racism is a common theme seen throughout history. Throughout history several groups of people have been affected by racism. Throughout history it hasn’t been just one group but many groups if not all have experienced it. In Contemporary Literature we explored topics of racism along with sexual assault. We learned that Racism is prejudice, discrimination, or antagonism directed against someone of a different race based on the belief that one's own race is superior;and that throughout history there have been […]

Slavery in Beloved

Modern American culture has largely forgotten about the establishment of slavery and the disturbing, psychological pain that Africans and African Americans had to endure. The history of black people in America has been filled with traumatic experiences, which has had a large impact on their personalities and their connection with themselves and others. In order to overcome the trauma of slavery requires remembering the atrocities faced by slaves rather than forgetting them. Toni Morrison's novel Beloved extends the examination […]

The Legacy of Slavery

Slavery is when one person owning another person. The effects that slavery has had on the nation is something many people still struggle to understand. A recent article by Rochelle Riley for USA Today describes slavery as America's open wound, the painful injury that a third of America lives with and the rest of the country attempts to ignore because, for them, it is an ancient scar and, well, hasn't it healed by now? Slavery has left a very noticeable […]

Frederick Douglass Slavery

In 1845 nonfiction book Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, written and told by Frederick Douglass himself, Douglass tells the true story of the cold, harsh, unsettling conditions he was forced to experience as a slave in the 1800’s. Frederick reveals the transformation that took him from a boy slave into manhood and how he had to rely on his own intellect to make his cruel conditions just even the slightest bit better. This autobiography gives insight into an […]

How To Write an Essay About Slavery

Understanding the history and impact of slavery.

Before you begin writing an essay about slavery, it is essential to have a comprehensive understanding of its history and impact. Slavery, the practice of owning and exploiting humans as property, has existed in various forms throughout history and across cultures. In your essay, focus on a specific era or type of slavery, such as the transatlantic slave trade, ancient slavery in Rome or Greece, or modern forms of slavery. Research the socio-economic and political contexts in which slavery existed, the life and treatment of slaves, and the long-term impacts on societies. Understanding the complexities and nuances of slavery will provide a solid foundation for your essay.

Formulating a Thesis Statement

A strong essay on slavery should be centered around a clear, concise thesis statement. This statement should present a specific angle or argument about slavery. For example, you might focus on the economic reasons behind the transatlantic slave trade, the psychological effects of slavery on individuals and communities, or the resistance and rebellion by slaves. Your thesis will guide the direction of your essay and ensure that your analysis is focused and coherent.

Gathering and Analyzing Historical Evidence

To support your thesis, gather historical evidence from credible sources. This may include primary sources like slave narratives, letters, and legal documents, or secondary sources like scholarly articles and history books. Analyze this evidence critically, considering the context, perspective, and purpose of each source. Use this evidence to support your arguments and provide depth to your analysis of slavery.

Discussing the Legacy and Contemporary Relevance

In your essay, discuss the legacy of slavery and its contemporary relevance. This could include its impact on racial relations, economic structures, and cultural practices. Consider how the history of slavery continues to influence current social and political issues. This discussion will add depth to your essay, connecting historical analysis with present-day implications.

Concluding Your Essay

Conclude your essay by summarizing the main points of your analysis and restating your thesis in light of the evidence presented. Your conclusion should tie together your arguments and emphasize the significance of understanding slavery's history and impact. Reflect on the broader implications of your findings, such as the importance of historical memory and the need for ongoing dialogue and education about slavery.

Reviewing and Refining Your Essay

After completing your essay, take the time to review and refine it. Ensure that your arguments are clearly articulated and supported by evidence. Check for grammatical accuracy and ensure that your essay flows logically from one point to the next. Consider seeking feedback from peers, teachers, or historians to further refine your essay. A well-written essay on slavery will not only reflect your understanding of the topic but also demonstrate your ability to engage critically with complex historical subjects.

1. Tell Us Your Requirements

2. Pick your perfect writer

3. Get Your Paper and Pay

Hi! I'm Amy, your personal assistant!

Don't know where to start? Give me your paper requirements and I connect you to an academic expert.

short deadlines

100% Plagiarism-Free

Certified writers

Encyclopedia Virginia, Virginia Humanities

A Dissertation on Slavery: With a Proposal for the Gradual Abolition of It, In the State of Virginia (1796)

A Dissertation on Slavery: With a Proposal for the Gradual Abolition of It, In the State of Virginia (1796), is an essay by St. George Tucker . When he submitted it to the General Assembly in 1796, Tucker was a law professor at the College of William and Mary and a judge on the bench of the General Court. In A Dissertation on Slavery , he discusses the history of slavery, the Virginia slave code, and the morality of slaveholding, and presents a plan for ending slavery. He wrestles with the tensions between the natural rights philosophy of the American Revolution (1775–1783) and the continued existence of slavery. Tucker’s attempt to resolve this tension had little immediate effect—the House of Delegates tabled his proposal and Tucker believed that many of the assembly’s members refused even to read it—but it did point to a society that somewhat resembled late nineteenth and early twentieth century Virginia. In his essay, Tucker proposed that enslaved African Americans be freed, but, for various reasons, should not enjoy the full rights and privileges of citizenship. Some historians have since pointed out that this circumstance actually came to pass, if not in precisely the manner that Tucker had prescribed.

Tucker was born and raised in Bermuda, where half the population was enslaved. He moved to Virginia in 1772, around age nineteen, to attend the College of William and Mary and study law under the direction of George Wythe , one of the colony’s foremost legal minds. (Wythe had also tutored Thomas Jefferson in the law .) During the American Revolution, Tucker brought salt and gunpowder from Bermuda for the troops and served in the Virginia militia. He set up a legal practice in Petersburg after the war and was appointed to the General Court in 1788. In 1790, he took up Wythe’s law professorship while maintaining his position on the bench.

Tucker began to research and write his Dissertation in 1795, and it took him more than a year to complete. He began by corresponding with Jeremy Belknap of the Massachusetts Historical Society, a clergyman and historian whom Tucker hoped could tell him how Massachusetts had managed the peaceful abolition of slavery . Belknap passed along the professor’s questions to a number of prominent correspondents. Several of them noted that the end of slavery came not with a formal decree, but with the interpretation—or in the view of one correspondent, James Winthrop, the “misconstruction”—of the Massachusetts Constitution of 1780. That document declares: “All men are born free and equal, and have certain natural, essential, and unalienable rights, among which may be reckoned the right of enjoying and defending their lives and liberties.” Belknap synthesized these various responses into a report.

In replying to this report, Tucker in effect provided a draft for his Dissertation on Slavery . He included in his response a plan of abolition that he thought his fellow Virginians might accept. By proposing a slow-moving course of action, Tucker hoped that he could convince the world—as he wrote in a letter to Belknap in 1795—”that the existence of slavery in this country is no longer to be deemed a reproach to the present generation.”

Tucker begins the essay by noting the “incompatibility” of slavery with the natural rights principles of the American Revolution. He therefore finds it impossible to justify the enslavement of black people “unless we first degrade them below the rank of human beings, not only politically, but also physically and morally.” Unwilling to take this step, Tucker argues that the time had come to accept the “moral truth” of the wrongness of slavery.

This assertion of modern natural rights seems a singularly inauspicious ground from which to defend slavery, but Tucker manages to do just that. He begins with an appeal to the right of self-preservation. The “recent history of the French West Indies”—referring to the slave revolt that began in Haiti in 1791 and led to Haitian independence in 1804—indicated the disastrous results that might follow large-scale emancipation. Employing the information he acquired from his correspondence with members of the Massachusetts Historical Society, Tucker notes that mass abolition had only proven successful in those states with a low ratio of slaves to free people. According to Tucker, Virginia had too high a ratio of slaves to free people. In some parts of the state “it is probable that there are four slaves for one free white man.” He argues that under such conditions, full-scale emancipation would produce famine at best and race war at worst.

With these considerations in mind, Tucker sets forth a very complicated plan of gradual emancipation. He pitches it as a revised version of gradual emancipation plans used in several northern states. First, all females born to slaves would serve twenty-eight-year indentures, after which their employers would give them twenty dollars and two suits of clothes. Children born to those serving such indentures must “be bound to service by the overseers of the poor, until they shall attain the age of twenty-one years.” This same agency would receive 15 percent of their wages when hired out for the short term, and 10 percent of their wages if they received an apprenticeship lasting for a year or more. If the master refused to pay freedom wages upon the arrival of the twenty-eighth year, he would have to pay the court a five-dollar fee.

Tucker’s plan denied freed slaves their basic civil liberties, including the right to keep weapons, to serve on juries, to testify against or marry white people, or even to write a will. Tucker justifies this course of action in the same way he had justified the continuance of slavery: by employing natural rights arguments and by noting the dangers created by the Haitian Revolution. Tucker argues that when dealing with people entering “into a state of society,” those already in the society have a right to “admit or exclude” anyone they wish. Thus he finds it consonant with natural rights to deny freed slaves the basic rights of citizens. He argues that the “recent scenes transacted” in Haiti “are enough to make one shudder with the apprehension of realizing similar calamities in this country.” Finding it impossible to propose a plan of emancipation that does not “either encounter, or accommodate [it]self to prejudice,” Tucker proposes a course that would negotiate what he saw as an acceptable mean between the evils of slavery and a mass emancipation that would “turn loose a numerous, starving, and enraged banditti upon the innocent descendants of their former oppressors.”

By restricting the civil liberties of freed slaves, Tucker hoped that he might encourage them to leave the state. “There is an immense unsettled territory on this continent more congenial to their natural constitutions than ours,” he writes, “where they may perhaps be received upon more favourable terms than we can permit them to remain with us.” Tucker saw the right to property as a natural right, but he doubted that the slave owner had a property right to an unborn child; besides, he argues, the planter would get at least fourteen years of good labor out of every slave born on his plantation. Tucker thought that his plan would win over skeptical slave owners. He enumerates the most surprising features of it: “the number of slaves will not be diminished for forty years after it takes place; that it will even increase for thirty years; that at the distance of sixty years, there will be one-third of the number at its first commencement; that it will require above a century to complete it; and that the number of blacks under twenty-eight, and consequently bound to service, in the families they are born in, will always be at least as great, as the present number of slaves.”

Contemporary Reception

Tucker, who published his 106-page essay in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, submitted a copy to the General Assembly in 1796. The House of Delegates quickly tabled it. Members of the Senate, having no power to propose legislation, saw the essay as less of a threat, and responded with a polite letter noting that they had received it. In a letter to Belknap in 1797, Tucker cites “mistaken self-interest and prejudice” as the primary enemies of the plan, and he tried “to elude, rather than invite, their attacks.” The effort failed; his essay remained virtually unknown. “Nobody, I believe has read it,” he complained to Belknap; “nobody could explain its contents.” Even if they had read it, Tucker doubted that anyone in the assembly would have been willing to take a stand on its behalf. That body was “split into factions, debating upon federal politics, and neither side probably wished to weaken its own influence by a division of sentiment among its partizans on any point whatever.”

Tucker also sent a copy of the Dissertation to Thomas Jefferson. The future president agreed with Tucker on both the means of emancipation and the urgency of the question. According to Jefferson, history would decide the question of emancipation for itself, regardless of the answer given by the slave owners. Jefferson believed that the consequences of failing to plan for emancipation would be disastrous. He saw all of America and Europe as ripe for insurrection, but he noted that only the southern states had to concern themselves with slave uprisings, which “a single spark” could produce at any time. If such an uprising were to come, Jefferson held out little hope that the other states would be of any assistance in putting it down.

Modern Reception

Many scholars have emphasized the connection between Tucker’s Dissertation and the ideology of natural rights. In All Honor to Jefferson? The Virginia Slavery Debates and the Positive Good Thesis (2008), Erik S. Root sees Tucker’s essay as evidence of the seriousness and consistency with which the Founding Fathers took these ideas. Similarly, the historian Phillip Hamilton, in an article published in 1998, argued that, “Tucker sought a middle ground on which to reconcile liberalism’s twin beliefs in basic human equality and the sanctity of all property.” In other words, Tucker wanted to find a way to end slavery without defrauding any creditors. Hamilton also places Tucker’s Dissertation in the context of a movement away from landed property as the basis of elite power in Virginia. Instead of this traditional mode of social organization, Tucker tried to base his independence on professional training for himself and his children.

In an article published in 2006, the legal historian Paul Finkelman assigns both praise and blame to Tucker’s Dissertation . On the one hand, “No other southerner of his generation offered a concrete proposal for ending slavery.” On the other hand, Tucker presented “a recipe for creating a permanent peasantry that Virginia’s landowners could exploit perpetually.” Tucker did so, however, in the hope that his proposal would “make Virginia a white person’s state in the long run.” Finkelman argues that if Tucker had followed this ideology through to conclusion he would have realized that a black peasantry also presented a threat to the self-preservation of white Virginians. “The peasants would provide more expensive labor but would not provide much greater safety.” Specifically, Virginia elites would find it easier to control slaves than they would to control a dispossessed class of free people.

Historians have long noted other ironies of this type surrounding the Dissertation . Winthrop Jordan, for instance, recognized Tucker’s essay as “startlingly portentous.” Tucker had called for a plan of emancipation that would take one hundred years. “A century later the Negro was free,” Jordan wrote in White Over Black: American Attitudes Toward the Negro (1968), “and in many areas of the South in a condition which, in an informal way, materially resembled the one he proposed.” Tucker thus made the point that natural rights do not always lead to civil rights, a lesson that has proved a bitter pill for Americans. Similarly, the historian Gordon S. Wood has noticed the unintended consequences of the natural rights critique of slavery. It forced those who defended slavery to couch their position in racial terms. In Empire of Liberty: A History of the Early Republic, 1789–1815 (2009), Wood argues, therefore, that, “The anti-slavery movement that emerged out of the Revolution inadvertently produced racism in America.”

African American History
Colonial History (ca. 1560–1763)
Curtis, Michael Kent. “St. George Tucker and the Legacy of Slavery.” William and Mary Law Review IL (2006), 1157–1212.
Finkelman, Paul. “The Dragon St. George Could Not Slay: Tucker’s Plan to End Slavery.” William and Mary Law Review IL (2006), 1213–1243.
Hamilton, Phillip. “Revolutionary Principles and Family Loyalties: Slavery’s Transformation in the St. George Tucker Household of Early National Virginia.” William and Mary Quarterly 55, no. 4 (October 1998), 531–556.
Hamilton, Phillip. The Making and Unmaking of a Revolutionary Family: The Tuckers of Virginia, 1752–1830 . Charlottesville: University of Virginia Press, 2003.
Root, Erik S. All Honor to Jefferson? The Virginia Slavery Debates and the Positive Good Thesis . New York: Lexington Books, 2008.
Jordan, Winthrop. White Over Black: American Attitudes Toward the Negro . Chapel Hill: University of North Carolina Press, 1968.
Wood, Gordon S. Empire of Liberty: A History of the Early Republic, 1789–1815 . New York: Oxford University Press, 2009.
Name First Last
Email This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Never Miss an Update

Partners & affiliates.

Encyclopedia Virginia 946 Grady Ave. Ste. 100 Charlottesville, VA 22903 (434) 924-3296

Indigenous Acknowledgment

Virginia Humanities acknowledges the Monacan Nation , the original people of the land and waters of our home in Charlottesville, Virginia.

We invite you to learn more about Indians in Virginia in our Encyclopedia Virginia .

Up From Slavery

By booker t. washington, up from slavery essay questions.

How does Washington aim to lift his race out of poverty?

Washington believes that industrial education is the key. Rather than moving to the north, he advises blacks to "cast down [their] bucket[s] where [they] are" (83) and establish themselves in the south, making friends with their southern white neighbors. He encourages them to excel in some industry, be it agriculture, mechanics, commerce, domestic service, or some other area, and to dignify and glorify common labor. For this reason he requires all students at Tuskegee to master a trade and to spend time doing manual labor along with studying academics.

What is Washington's relationship with southern whites?

Despite having been enslaved as a boy, Washington maintains an attitude of respect. He views all as potential helpers and is clear about his admiration of prominent white southerners. They, in turn, solicit his participation in political negotiations, such as requesting that the federal government support the Atlanta Exposition. Washington does not challenge the dominant white class, but rather seeks to assuage their guilt at enslaving his people by assuring them that blacks have no bitter feelings about their former masters. He highlights the similarities between the races and seeks to "civilize" his students to be more like their white neighbors.

What does Washington advise his race to do in order to achieve social and political equality?

He advises patience, as achieving such equality should be the result of natural, slow growth. He considers it folly to agitate for political and social equality, believing that progress will come as the result of constant struggle rather than artificial forcing. In time, he believes, southern whites will give the Negro political rights and will protect him in exercising those rights, provided they do not feel forced to do so. Blacks will achieve political rights as they acquire property and grow in intelligence and character.

How does Washington think the race problem can be solved?

He believes it is best to bring together the races and to encourage friendly relations. The Negro can do this by making himself valuable in the community where he lives, by learning to do something better than anyone else. He illustrates this idea by telling of a Tuskegee graduate who had figured out how to produce five times the average amount of sweet potatoes. The white farmers in his community respected his skill and knowledge and came to him for advice. Similarly, Tuskegee students built positive relationships with their white neighbors when they began providing them with high-quality bricks and vehicles produced at the school.

What is Washington's attitude towards women?

Washington mentions women infrequently, but when he does, he accords them power and gives them respect. It is notable that Tuskegee admitted both men and women from the start, given the prevailing attitude towards women at the time. He credits Viola Ruffner with teaching him valuable lessons about working hard and keeping up a property, and he praised Mary Mackie, the head teacher at Hampton, with the way she helped him to clean the institute despite her high pedigree. While we hear little of Washington's family life, he lavishes praise on the hard work performed by each of his wives in the interest of Tuskegee.

GradeSaver will pay $15 for your literature essays

Up From Slavery Questions and Answers

The Question and Answer section for Up From Slavery is a great resource to ask questions, find answers, and discuss the novel.

The authors purpose in writing this selection is to?

I'm sorry, you have not provided the selection (excerpt) in question. Please include all information in your posts.

Write down the central theme of the text, struggle for an education, in your own words.

First and foremost, Up from Slavery is a book about the power of education to transform lives. From an early age, Washington views school as a paradise, a way to escape ignorance and to become equipped to help others. He sees industrial education...

What did the author compare to the way he got he his meals

What chapter are you referring to?

Study Guide for Up From Slavery

Up From Slavery study guide contains a biography of Booker T. Washington, literature essays, quiz questions, major themes, characters, and a full summary and analysis.

About Up From Slavery
Up From Slavery Summary
Character List

Essays for Up From Slavery

Up From Slavery essays are academic essays for citation. These papers were written primarily by students and provide critical analysis of Up From Slavery by Booker T. Washington.

The Danger of Passiveness in Booker T. Washington’s “Up from Slavery”

Wikipedia Entries for Up From Slavery

Introduction

Research Paper Topics About Slavery: Know Your Enemy

When we recall the most crucial issues of the modern world, we think of global warming, wars, hunger, environmental pollution, and many other problems. But we never associate modern society with slavery. Unfortunately, we still should. It’s not as bad as it used to be. However, this horrifying form of inhumanity still exists. We’ve decided to follow the rule “know your enemy.”

Below, you’ll find an impressive list of research paper topics on slavery. We’ve also placed here a few links to our samples on slavery topics. Moreover, you can check out our business research paper topics or music research topics if you can’t figure out what to write about. Learn more about this global issue and get prepared for any type of debate on the topic! With such a list on hand, writing a slavery or a death penalty research paper will get much easier.

Below, you’ll find an impressive list of research paper topics on slavery. We’ve also placed here a few links to our samples on slavery topics. Learn more about this global issue and get prepared for any type of debate on the topic!

Argumentative topics about slavery

Does slavery still exist?
Is racial inequality in the criminal justice system inherited from slavery?
Why is slavery immoral?
Was the impact of slavery on women of color different from the impact on men?
Did slavery have any positive effects? Exemplify your answer.
Why were peaceful means against slavery ineffective?
Why did slavery as a massive phenomenon last so long?
What type of rehabilitation for ex-slaves should exist?
Can addictions be considered a form of slavery?
Was slavery inevitable after all?
Why are discussions about slavery important for modern students around the world?
For whom was the idea of slavery the most beneficial when it appeared?
What is the most destructive aspect of slavery?
Is slavery the most essential reason for racism in American society?
Reparations for slavery: are they possible?

Compare and contract slavery topics

Compare and contrast bullying and slavery.
Compare and contrast slavery in Cuba and in the USA.
Compare and contrast serfdom in Russia and slavery in the Americas.
Compare and contrast the economic gain for the USA from the African American sharecropping system and the bracero program.
Compare and contrast the Dutch form of slavery and those of other places in Europe.
Compare and contrast “de facto” and “de jure” slavery in the 17th century.
What were the main differences between indentured servants and slaves?
Differences and similarities between American and Middle Eastern slavery systems.
Compare and contrast the representation of slavery in English and American literature.
Compare and contrast the participation of white and black women in the feminist movement in the 19th and 20th centuries.

Definition research paper topics on slavery

Define the term “abolitionism.”
Define the term “genocide slavery.”
Define the term “sex trafficking.”
Define the term “psychological slavery.”
Define the term “slave narrative.”

Topics about slavery in art and literature

Why does the slave narrative “Behind the Scenes: Or, Thirty Years a Slave and Four Years in the White House” by Elizabeth Hobbs Keckley have great historical value?
Why was the novel “Clotel” by William Wells Brown important for the abolitionist movement?
How did the novel “Uncle Tom’s Cabin” by Harriet Beecher Stowe help to make public the issue of slavery?
The arguments against individual freedom in the novel “Brave New World” by Aldous Huxley.
What struggles of female slaves are shown in the autobiography “Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl” by Harriet Jacobs?
In the slave narrative “In My Bondage and My Freedom,” Frederick Douglass states that slavery makes victims out of everyone: slaves, slavers, and non-slave holding whites. Do you agree or disagree? Defend your viewpoint.
Does the movie “Spartacus” (1960) portray a slave revolt accurately?
The issue of slavery in the novel “Invention of Wings” by Sue Monk Kidd.
Pro-slavery arguments in the book “Defending Slavery” by Paul Finkelman.
Antislavery motives in the novel “Oroonoko” by Aphra Behn.
What forms of slavery does Margaret Atwood depict in her dystopian novel “The Handmaid’s Tale”?
Religious worldview on slavery in works by Julia Ward Howe.
The quest for freedom in the movie “Twelve Years a Slave.”
Can marriage in the 19th century be suggested as a form of slavery taking into consideration female portrayal in literature?
Is the movie “Free State of Jones” directed by Gary Ross historically accurate?

Research paper topics on slavery in world history

Domestic slavery in Medieval Florence.
The history of slavery in Latin America.
Was the policy of colonialism the main reason for slavery?
The impact of the Haitian Revolution on slavery in the Caribbean.
What were Aristotle’s beliefs regarding slavery?
What was the social structure in Ancient Egypt? What role did slaves play in its society?
How was the women’s rights movement related to the antislavery movement in the 19th century?
What factors caused the development of indentured servitude?
The role of the Atlantic slave trade in the world economy.
The evolution of slavery from inception to abolition.
Why was slavery considered normal in Ancient Greece?
Was the formation of the Roman Empire possible without slavery?
What was the most effective form of slave resistance in history? Why?
Did the ideas of the Enlightenment confront slavery?
What was Adam Smith’s view on slavery and how did he represent it in his works?

Topics about slavery in US history

What was Lincoln’s policy toward slavery?
American politics on slavery in the 19th century.
How did slavery affect the modern labor politics in the USA?
Why was the attitude toward slavery different in the northern and in the southern states?
Mason’s and Dixon’s line as a boundary between the North and the South.
Is American capitalism rooted in slavery?
How did slavery form the political landscape in the USA before the Civil War?
Was the conflict over slavery the only reason for the Civil War?
What arguments were used by the Confederates to defend slavery?
What role did slaveholders play in the Texas Revolution?
Why was the passage on slavery deleted from the Declaration of Independence?
Why was slavery more important for agricultural regions than for industrial regions?
The Dred Scott decision and its influence on the beginning of the Civil War.
How did the Civil War end up with the abolition of slavery?
What Bible passages did the southerners use to justify slavery?
Did slaves help the North to win the Civil War?
What problems did former slaves face after the Civil War? How did Congress help them to solve those problems?
What was the connection between the enslavement of the indigenous population and African slavery in the Americas?
How did slavery influence the formation of jazz?
The British government at the end of the 18th century was both seen as a liberator by African Americans and as a potential enslaver by white Americans. What was the reason for such a difference in their beliefs?
How did Lincoln’s election affect slavery in the USA?
What were the main goals of the Abolitionist movement?
Will legalizing prostitution reduce sex slavery in the USA?
Why did the slavery system last even after the American industrial revolution?
Why did white families in the South defend slavery even though not all of them had slaves?

Topics about slavery today

Nigeria’s policy toward slavery and human trafficking.
Why does slavery still exist in modern society?
Why is stopping modern-day human trafficking difficult?
What agricultural crop is connected with slavery the most?
What aspects of slavery are different for men and women?
Does child slavery in China exist?
The issue of sex slavery in Ghana.
Can slavery be beneficial in some modern countries? Why or why not?
How do GCC countries fight slavery now?
What are the modern forms of slavery?

Paper samples on slavery

As we’ve promised, there are two samples on slavery topics from our writers:

What was the role of slavery and slave rebellions in Jamaica’s past?
The antislavery appeal sample .

We hope that our list of research paper topics on slavery along with these samples will help you with composing your piece of writing on this topic. Check out topics for essays about sharks as well.

More and more students are searching for reliable research paper writing services when they are in need of research papers for sale . Our service offers top quality writing help all year round. You can pay for research paper in a few clicks. Then, a qualified expert will guide you through the writing process so you manage to complete your task on time. Apart from that, we also have an AI checker essay tool available right on the website. Students can buy a research paper anytime.

Anyway, if you don’t have enough time for your paper, EssayShark.com is always here. You pick the topic, and our research proposal writing service will provide you with high-quality academic assistance. We’re available 24/7! Forget about your deadlines and apply to us!

Photo by PublicDomainPictures from Pixabay

9 thoughts on “ Research Paper Topics About Slavery: Know Your Enemy ”

What a wonderful list of slavery topics! I can’t wait to start my essay.

Maybe, EssayShark is the best service for students IN THE WORLD!!!

Thanks! We will never let you down.

What can be harder that tasks on slavery essay topics? I am sure I can’t manage with it…

Thanks for ideas – after reading this list of slavery essay titles, I improve my kowledge on this topic after little brainstorming.

Guys, I need help! Did anyone already write essay about slavery? What should I do first?

Hello. If you are not assigned a particular topic, think it over or choose from our list. Find reliable sources you will cite in your paper, and start writing an initial draft. And you can always count on EssayShark writers 🙂

These slavery topics are lifebuoy for students like me!

What our customers say

Our website uses secure cookies. More details

Get professional help from best writers right from your phone

Grab our 3 e-books bundle for $27 FREE

Methods of Slave Resistance DBQ

Use this Lesson to h

Examine the various ways enslaved men and women resisted the conditions of slavery by analyzing primary source excerpts dating from c. 1780 to 1850.
Systematically analyze primary sources by answering comprehension questions for each document.
Write a thesis statement that responds to a document-based question prompt.

Expand Materials Materials

Handout A: Student Document Packet

Expand More Information More Information

Students should have prior knowledge of how to approach primary sources, and the sensitivity and respect required to talk about the topic of slavery. The conditions of slavery described in some of these documents are painful and upsetting. Reflective questions are suggested for discussion after students have finished working through the documents to address the sensitivity of the topic.

Expand Warmup Warmup

Lead students in a brief discussion or quick written response to the following prompt: How do you react when you are put in a situation you find unfair, unjust, and/or morally wrong? What are your options? How can you respond? Guide students to think about the ways in which someone can “fight back” and address a wrong (e.g., due process, seek out like-minded individuals and work for change, use force or violence, run away, create coping mechanisms). Transition the conversation to the topic of slavery. The key point about slavery is that it was a power relationship in which enslaved individuals did not have power, and this was enforced by law and by violence. Students might find a grade or curfew unfair, but in comparison to having no power over your person, this is trivial. Remind students that as early as 1688 and throughout the Founding era, groups publicly condemned the institution of slavery (see the Germantown Friends’ Antislavery Petition, 1688 Primary Source in Chapter 2). Enslaved individuals also spoke or acted out in various ways to affirm their own humanity and call attention to the brutality of the institution of slavery. In this activity, students will consider those responses.

Expand Activities Activities

Distribute the document packet for the lesson. Have students work individually, with a partner, or in small groups to read each source in sequence and answer the accompanying questions.

After students have worked through the documents, invite them to come back together to synthesize the content by leading a class discussion on the following reflective questions. Students may respond orally to each question or write their responses to each question, as best fits your classroom.

1. What patterns did you see in the ways enslaved individuals resisted their fate? Point to specific pieces of evidence from the documents to support your answer.

2. What was most shocking to you in these documents?

3. Why is it important to thoroughly examine painful subjects in American history?

Expand Wrap Up Wrap Up

Have each student write a thesis statement to the DBQ prompt: Analyze the methods of resistance used by enslaved Africans in the United States c. 1780–1865.

You may solicit volunteers to share their thesis and workshop several using the following questions, or have students share with a partner and provide feedback on the following questions:

Does the thesis answer the question without restating the prompt?
Does the thesis make sense?
Is the thesis historically accurate?
Does the thesis provide clear and cohesive reasoning?
Does the thesis provide a road map or “table of contents” for an essay?

Thesis statements can be collected and assessed using the criteria from the College Board for a successful thesis statement, or with an individual class rubric.

Depending on where students are in their understanding of the DBQ essay, have students outline their response or write a full essay, as best fits your teaching situation.

Related Resources

Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness

In our resource history is presented through a series of narratives, primary sources, and point-counterpoint debates that invites students to participate in the ongoing conversation about the American experiment.

Slavery Essay for Students and Children

500+ words essay on slavery.

Slavery is a term that signifies the injustice that is being carried out against humans since the 1600s. Whenever this word comes up, usually people picture rich white people ruling over black people. However, that is not the only case to exist. After a profound study, historians found evidence that suggested the presence of slavery in almost every culture. It was not essentially in the form of people working in the fields, but other forms. Slavery generally happens due to the division of levels amongst humans in a society. It still exists in various parts of the world. It may not necessarily be that hard-core, nonetheless, it happens.

Impact of Slavery

Slavery is one of the main causes behind racism in most of the cultures. It did severe damage to the race relations of America where a rift was formed between the whites and blacks.

The impact of Slavery has caused irreparable damage which can be seen to date. Even after the abolishment of slavery in the 1800s in America, racial tensions remained amongst the citizens.

In other words, this made them drift apart from each other instead of coming close. Slavery also gave birth to White supremacy which made people think they are inherently superior just because of their skin color and descendant.

Talking about the other forms of slavery, human trafficking did tremendous damage. It is a social evil which operates even today, ruining hundreds and thousands of innocent lives. Slavery is the sole cause which gave birth to all this.

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

The Aftermath

Even though slavery was abolished over 150 years ago, the scars still remain. The enslaved still haven’t forgotten the struggles of their ancestors. It lives on in their hearts which has made them defensive more than usual. They resent the people whose ancestors brought it down on their lineage.

Even today many people of color are a victim of racism in the 21st century. For instance, black people face far more severe punishments than a white man. They are ridiculed for their skin color even today. There is a desperate need to overcome slavery and all its manifestations for the condition and security of all citizens irrespective of race, religion , social, and economic position .

In short, slavery never did any good to any human being, of the majority nor minority. It further divided us as humans and put tags on one another. Times are changing and so are people’s mindsets.

One needs to be socially aware of these evils lurking in our society in different forms. We must come together as one to fight it off. Every citizen has the duty to make the world a safer place for every human being to live in.

Customize your course in 30 seconds

Which class are you in.

Travelling Essay
Picnic Essay
Our Country Essay
My Parents Essay
Essay on Favourite Personality
Essay on Memorable Day of My Life
Essay on Knowledge is Power
Essay on Gurpurab
Essay on My Favourite Season
Essay on Types of Sports

Download the App

HISTORY 495S/496S: Honors Thesis Seminar 2024/25

Topic: Cherokee Women, Property, Law, and Slavery
Thesis Writers & Duke Libraries
Browse all Guides at Duke Libraries
Define Archival Materials and Primary Sources
Appreciate the "Finding Aid" for Archival Material
Search Across Finding Aid Portals
Organize and Cite Your Sources
Topic: The West and the Soviet Union
Topic: France Colonialism
Topic: NAZI Germany Persecution US Perceptions
Topic: US and Bosnia 1992–1995
Topic: Counter Culture and Black Power Movements
Topic: Canada and the American Civil War
Topic: Asante Female Power
Topic: Trinity College, Black Workers, and Durham

Subject Librarians

Duke databases broadly related to the topic, archives and digital collections, secondary materials: books, secondary materials: articles.

Sexual Assault in US. Army
Topic: Page Act
Topic: Credit Lending and the Rise of Investment Banking
Topic: Child Welfare Legislation
Topic: Reagan to 9/11: Impacts on American Muslim Communities
Impact of Rabbinical Teachings on Israeli Settlers Violence 1967-1980

Linda Daniel , Librarian for Native America Studies, [email protected]

Native American/Indigenous Studies

Kelley Lawton , Librarian for United States History, [email protected]

United States History

Heather Martin , Librarian for African and African American Studies, [email protected]

African American Studies
Sabin Americana, 1500-1926 This link opens in a new window Search for primary sources about the Americas published throughout the world from 1500 to the early 1900's
Slavery and Anti-Slavery: A Transnational Archive This link opens in a new window Search primary sources related to the history of slavery from the 15th through the early 20th century
Making of Modern Law: Primary Sources This link opens in a new window Search for early American legal primary sources. Part I covers 1620-1926 and Part II covers 1763-1970. Contents include U.S. state codes, city charters, constitutional conventions and compilations, legal dictionaries, and more.

Find law review articles, primary source materials, and government documents

Indigenous Histories and Cultures in North America This link opens in a new window Manuscripts, artwork and rare printed books dating from the earliest contact with European settlers right up to photographs and newspapers from the mid-twentieth century. Browse through a wide range of rare and original documents from treaties, speeches and diaries, to historic maps and travel journals.
Indigenous Newspapers in North America This link opens in a new window American Indian Newspapers aims to present a diverse and robust collection of print journalism from Indigenous peoples of the US and Canada over more than 9,000 individual editions from 1828-2016

Start with a Keywords search, using words that describe your topic, and see what you find.

You might try different combinations of the following, as Subject searches:

"African Americans -- Relations with Indians"

"Cherokee Indians -- Race identity"

"Oklahoma -- Race relations"

"Cherokee women -- History"

"Cherokee women -- Social conditions"

Secondary sources of particular relevance:

Michael Roethler, "Negro Slavery Among the Cherokee Indians, 1540-1866" (Ph.D. diss., Fordham University, 1964)
America: History & Life This link opens in a new window Search for journal articles covering the history and culture of the United States and Canada, from prehistory to the present
Anthropology Plus This link opens in a new window Search for journal articles, reports, edited works, and obituaries in anthropology

Search a collection of important scholarly journals representing a range of disciplines.

Sociological Abstracts This link opens in a new window Search for international literature in sociology and related social and behavioral sciences disciplines
Web of Science This link opens in a new window Search for articles from scholarly journals in all areas of research
<< Previous: Topic: Trinity College, Black Workers, and Durham
Next: Sexual Assault in US. Army >>
Last Updated: Aug 14, 2024 5:16 PM
URL: https://guides.library.duke.edu/history_honors_thesis

Services for...

Faculty & Instructors
Graduate Students
Undergraduate Students
International Students
Patrons with Disabilities

Harmful Language Statement
Re-use & Attribution / Privacy
Support the Libraries

Thesis Statement (History)

I'm struggling to come up with a thesis statement surrounding slavery, that also connects to the unit question 'What is worth fighting for?'. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!

Christopher F.

4 Answers By Expert Tutors

Lisa F. answered • 01/01/23

Dedicated writing tutor for English and multiple subjects (PhD)

Hi, Holly, coming up with thesis statements are usually a major step in getting your paper started. Try thinking about the thesis you need to write as the way you would respond to your instructor's prompt or question. In any material you read about slavery, what did you see that was worth fighting for? You could also think about the different groups involved in slavery, both those for it and those opposed to it. What did these different groups feel was worth fighting for? Which group's actions do you feel strongly about? If you create a thesis you feel strongly about, it will help your motivation on the assignment. If you 'd like help on the assignment, I'd be happy to help you. Just message me.

Stephanie B. answered • 01/01/23

English Major Who Loves Literature

Thesis statements can be overwhelming, but try and think of it more as an answer to a question. What might someone ask when it comes to slavery and what is worth fighting for? What might the slaves have been fighting for?

Think of major people or events and what they were fighting for. For example, when Harriet Tubman led slaves to freedom at the risk of her own life. What was she fighting for?

Once you decide that, you can create a thesis statement with supporting points that you will detail further in your paper.

I am happy to work further with you on this—feel free to message me.

Jacob D. answered • 12/31/22

Your personal reading/writing tutor

This question is vague, it would help to understand the context of your research. I would start with something like "The cost of the Civil War and why America needed to pay it."

Cost can be evaluated in many different facets. Do you mean monetary cost? Bloodshed? Dividing the union?

Barbara T. answered • 12/31/22

Experienced Writing Professor / College Prep Coach

You don't say what kind of slavery, who is being enslaved, what gender, class, race, what country you're studying or what time period. But I would assume that stopping slavery in any century or country is definitely worth fighting for.

A thesis can also be called an argument. You're putting together a set of ideas and trying to convince someone (a reader) to see your ideas and understand them. Try to think about what matters to you - what to you is worth fighting for. If having freedoms, not hurting people, not treating them terribly, not physically abusing them, or selling them off to the highest bidder is worth fighting for, then you know what you would want to say about enslaving people or slavery, in general.

Think about what you've learned concerning slavery and what matters to you. Then you need to come up with the WHY of this - why is it important to fight against slavery? Or why was it important in the past to fight against slavery. Or what is the purpose of fighting for the rights of people? Or fighting for people's freedoms? Or their ability to live their lives as they see fit instead of being told how to live their lives under a master? The WHY is your thesis or argument that you will use to discuss further ideas in the body of your paper.

Still looking for help? Get the right answer, fast.

Get a free answer to a quick problem. Most questions answered within 4 hours.

Choose an expert and meet online. No packages or subscriptions, pay only for the time you need.

When do I use which or that in a sentence?

Answers · 18

Is there any proof that Shakespeare wrote his plays?

Answers · 17

Is it wrong to write in passive voice?

Answers · 46

How do I know when to use affect vs effect?

Answers · 38

find an online tutor

Language Arts tutors
English tutors
History tutors
Spanish tutors
ACT English tutors
AP European History tutors
German tutors
AP World History tutors

related lessons

English Speaking Culture
Tribology, Etymology and History
Sesquipedalian, Etymology and History
What is a Robot? Etymology and History

Share full article

Subscriber-only Newsletter

Jamelle Bouie

Where does jd vance’s ideology really come from.

By Jamelle Bouie

Opinion Columnist

The single most troubling thing about Senator JD Vance — his bizarre understanding of the work of J.R.R. Tolkien notwithstanding — is his close relationship with some of the most extreme elements of the American right.

When asked to explain his worldview, Vance has cited his former boss, Peter Thiel, the billionaire venture capitalist who has written passionately against democracy (“I no longer believe that freedom and democracy are compatible”), and Curtis Yarvin, a software developer turned blogger and provocateur who believes the United States should transition to monarchy (“If Americans want to change their government, they’re going to have to get over their dictator phobia”). Yarvin has also written favorably of human bondage (slavery, he once wrote , “is a natural human relationship”) and wondered aloud if apartheid wasn’t better for Black South Africans.

While Vance’s admirers see him as a uniquely intellectual presence in American politics — a thinker as much as a politician — his right-wing, authoritarian views are largely derivative of the views and preoccupations of Thiel, Yarvin and their community of “postliberal” ideologues and reactionary venture capitalists. Take Vance’s view that the United States is in a period of Romanesque decline. “We are in a late republican period,” Vance said on a podcast in 2021. “If we’re going to push back against it, we’re going to have to get pretty wild, and pretty far out there, and go in directions that a lot of conservatives right now are uncomfortable with.”

Compare this to Thiel’s view that “liberalism” and “democracy” are “exhausted,” and that to restore the nation “we have to ask some questions very far outside the Overton window.” Is this a call for new tax cuts, or does it represent a fundamental hostility toward popular constitutional government in the United States?

In addition to relationships with Thiel and Yarvin, Vance is also in close contact with the bottom feeders on the far right. For nearly two years, according to The Washington Post , Vance was in regular conversation by text message with Chuck Johnson, a notorious Holocaust denier who has spent the better part of a decade promoting right-wing conspiracy theories.

And as my colleague Michelle Goldberg wrote this week , Vance is close enough to Jack Posobiec — an alt-right lunatic who pushed the vile and absurd Pizzagate conspiracy theory and collaborated with online neo-Nazis to spread antisemitic hate — to blurb his latest book, a polemic devoted to the idea that liberals and leftists are Untermenschen who must be stopped lest they destroy civilization. “As they are opposed to humanity itself,” Posobiec and his co-author, Joshua Lisec, write, “they place themselves outside of the category completely, in an entirely new misery-driven subdivision, the unhuman.”

We are having trouble retrieving the article content.

Please enable JavaScript in your browser settings.

Thank you for your patience while we verify access. If you are in Reader mode please exit and log into your Times account, or subscribe for all of The Times.

Thank you for your patience while we verify access.

Already a subscriber? Log in .

Want all of The Times? Subscribe .

IMAGES

...An essay on slavery,
Question cards on Slavery and the beginnings of the British Empire
A History of Slavery in the United States
Slaves Essay
thesis slavery expansion.docx
Slavery Essay

COMMENTS

271 Ideas, Essay Examples, and Topics on Slavery
Good slavery essays discuss the aspects and problems that are important and relevant today. Choose slavery essay topics that raise significant problems that remain acute in modern society. Slavery essay titles and topics may include: The problem of human trafficking in today's world.
Slavery Research Paper Topics
Explore the rich history of slavery through our comprehensive guide on slavery research paper topics. This page is designed for history students seeking in-depth insights into various aspects of slavery, including ancient, medieval, Islamic, and modern periods. We present an extensive list of slavery research paper topics categorized into 10 ...
203 Slavery Essay Topics & Research Titles at StudyCorgi
Slavery in "Parable of the Sower" by Octavia Butler. The History of Slavery: Impacts on Contemporary Society. The Theme of Slavery in Poetry. "Up from Slavery" by Booker T. Washington Analysis. Race and Slavery in the "Clotel" Novel by Brown. We will write a custom essay on your topic tailored to your instructions!
Capitalism and Slavery: Reflections on the Williams Thesis
At its most basic, (and setting the question of semantics aside for a moment) the Williams thesis held that capitalism as an economic modality quickly replaced slavery once European elites accumulated the vast surplus capital from slavery that they needed in order to bankroll their industrial revolution. ... Perhaps the most sweeping account to ...
PDF Exploring Modern Slavery and The Modern Slavery Act 2015: How Does the
slavery legislation, specifically the Modern Slavery Act 2015. The thesis explores the disconnect between different sections of the literature of slavery and trafficking. The thesis argues in conclusion that the development of the concept of 'modern slavery' and the subsequent collapse of the legal boundaries between human trafficking and
PDF Paul and Slavery: A Conflict of Metaphor and Reality
Thesis Question Paul's presentation of slavery took slaves from a non-recognized social status to a fully recognized role in his Christian communities. Paul identified himself and good Christians as slaves of God, protected Christian slaves from their Christian masters, gave slaves
PDF Human Trafficking: Modern-day Slavery in Need of A Modern-day Solution
7 Sun Pinghua and Yan Xie, "Human Trafficking and Sex Slavery in the Modern World," Albany Government Law Review 7, no. 1 (2014): 93. 8 Diana Wong, ڙThe Rumor of Trafficking,ښ in Illicit Flows and Criminal Things: States, Borders, and the Other Side of Globalization. eds. Willem van Schendel and Itty Abraham. 69,
Teaching Notes
Teaching Notes by Samir Goswami. January 16, 2018 11:30 am (EST) Ahmad Masood/Reuters. Slavery disproportionally affects women and girls while also victimizing men and boys of all backgrounds, and ...
PDF The Political Legacy of American Slavery
For. the first 250 years of American history, white land-owners, predominantly from the South, enslaved mil-lions of individuals of African descent. This"peculiar institution, as it was sometimes called, de ned the social, " fi economic, and political landscape of the American South throughout this period.
Atlantic Slavery and the Slave Trade: History and Historiography
Frederick Cooper, Plantation Slavery on the East Coast of Africa (New Haven, CT: Yale University Press, 1977); Martin A. Klein and Paul E. Lovejoy, "Slavery in West Africa," in The Uncommon Market: Essays in the Economic History of the Atlantic Slave Trade, ed. Henry A. Gemery and Jan S. Hogendorn (New York: Academic Press, 1979), 181-212 ...
U.S. Slavery: Timeline, Figures & Abolition
Slavery in America was the legal institution of enslaving human beings, mainly Africans and African Americans. Slavery existed in the United States from its founding in 1776 and became the main ...
Slavery and the Civil War
Slavery and the Civil War Essay. During the period of 1820-1860, the life of white and black people in the South depended on developing the Institute of slavery which shaped not only social but also economic life of the region. The Institute of slavery was primarily for the Southern states, and this feature helped to distinguish the South from ...
PDF Why did Slavery Survive the American Revolution?
Abstract. When the United States declared its independence in 1776, the slave population had grown to 500,000, about one-fifth of the new nation's residents. While Americans experienced a fight against an oppressive government in the Revolutionary War, African Americans saw an opportunity to claim freedom in the ideals of the Revolution and ...
Slavery Free Essay Examples And Topic Ideas
326 essay samples found. Slavery involves the ownership and forced labor of one person by another. Essays on slavery could explore its historical occurrences, the impact of slavery on contemporary racial relations, or discuss the legacies and traumas of slavery. It could also delve into the various forms of modern-day slavery and human trafficking.
A Dissertation on Slavery: With a Proposal for the Gradual Abolition of
According to Jefferson, history would decide the question of emancipation for itself, regardless of the answer given by the slave owners. ... The Virginia Slavery Debates and the Positive Good Thesis (2008), Erik S. Root sees Tucker's essay as evidence of the seriousness and consistency with which the Founding Fathers took these ideas ...
Changing Views of Slavery Mini-DBQ
Have each student write a thesis statement to the prompt: Explain how attitudes toward African slavery changed from the Founding Era (c. 1780) to the mid-nineteenth century (c. 1840). You may solicit volunteers to share their thesis and workshop several using the following questions, or have students share with a partner and provide feedback on ...
Up From Slavery Essay Questions
Up From Slavery Essay Questions. 1. How does Washington aim to lift his race out of poverty? Washington believes that industrial education is the key. Rather than moving to the north, he advises blacks to "cast down [their] bucket [s] where [they] are" (83) and establish themselves in the south, making friends with their southern white neighbors.
90+ Research Paper Topics on Slavery: Yesterday and Today
2Compare and contract slavery topics. 3Definition research paper topics on slavery. 4Topics about slavery in art and literature. 5Research paper topics on slavery in world history. 6Topics about slavery in US history. 7Topics about slavery today. 8Paper samples on slavery. Argumentative topics about slavery.
What was one aspect of Abraham Lincoln's views on slavery?
Here are a few sample thesis statements that might work for you: 1. President Lincoln strongly opposed slavery within any part of the United States. 2. President Lincoln believed slavery must be ...
Methods of Slave Resistance DBQ
Use this Lesson to h. Examine the various ways enslaved men and women resisted the conditions of slavery by analyzing primary source excerpts dating from c. 1780 to 1850. Systematically analyze primary sources by answering comprehension questions for each document. Write a thesis statement that responds to a document-based question prompt.
Slavery Essay for Students and Children
500+ Words Essay on Slavery. Slavery is a term that signifies the injustice that is being carried out against humans since the 1600s. Whenever this word comes up, usually people picture rich white people ruling over black people. However, that is not the only case to exist. After a profound study, historians found evidence that suggested the ...
How Can Teachers Explain Slavery to Students?
4) Create spaces that enable students and educators to express and reflect upon their diverse identities across multiple dimensions. "In this time of increased suspicion of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, it's tempting for many people to reject DEI ideals or practices, but having diversity of educators, of students, of political positions, of experiences, is essential for ...
HISTORY 495S/496S: Honors Thesis Seminar 2024/25
Slavery and Anti-Slavery: A Transnational Archive This link opens in a new window Search primary sources related to the history of slavery from the 15th through the early 20th century Making of Modern Law: Primary Sources This link opens in a new window
Thesis Statement (History)
The question of what is worth fighting for is a complex one, but in the case of slavery, the answer is clear: the basic human rights and freedoms of all people are worth fighting for. Slavery has a long and deeply disturbing history, with individuals and entire communities being bought, sold, and treated as property for centuries.
Opinion
The single most troubling thing about Senator JD Vance — his bizarre understanding of the work of J.R.R. Tolkien notwithstanding — is his close relationship with some of the most extreme ...

Slavery Research Paper Topics

100 Slavery Research Paper Topics

Academic Writing, Editing, Proofreading, And Problem Solving Services

Slavery: Exploring the History, Impact, and Legacies

How to Choose Slavery Research Paper Topics

How to Write a Slavery Research Paper

iResearchNet’s Writing Services:

Unleash Your Potential with iResearchNet’s Writing Services

ORDER HIGH QUALITY CUSTOM PAPER

203 Slavery Essay Topics

Teaching Notes: Modern Slavery

Teaching Notes Components

Essay Questions

Top Stories on CFR

Article contents

Models of Slavery and Resistance

The Cliometric Debates

Women, Gender, and Slavery

The Atlanticization of Slavery Studies

Into the Digital Era

Acknowledgments

Further Reading

Related Articles

Slavery in America

Slavery in Plantations and Cities

Living Conditions of Enslaved People

Slave Rebellions

Abolitionist Movement

Missouri Compromise

Kansas-Nebraska Act

John Brown’s Raid on Harper’s Ferry

When Did Slavery End?

The Legacy of Slavery

Sign up for Inside History

Slavery and the Civil War Essay

Theme Essays. Diversity

Slavery - Essay Examples And Topic Ideas For Free

What is Worse than Slavery

The Development of America and the Impact of Slavery

History: the Fall of the Roman Empire

A History of Slavery in the United States

Legacy of Slavery: from Juneteenth to Modern-Day Mass Incarceration

The Definition of Racism

How did Music Enhance the Experience of Slavery

Sharecropping Better than Slavery

Jamaican Culture

Slavery and Racism in “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn”

Modern Slavery

The American Revolution

The Impact of Slavery

Why Slavery was the Engine of American Economic Growth

The Reformation Evangelicalism and the British Anti-Slavery Movement

The Issues of Slavery: Reflection in Literature

Slave Narrative to the Black Lives Matter Movement

Slavery and Immigration

What is Modern Slavery?

How did Slavery Shape Modern Society?

Was Slavery the Cause of the Civil War Essay

Making Racism Obsolete

Racism and Slavery

Why is Slavery Wrong

Slavery in the South Vs North

Slavery Codes and Laws

Racism in the United States of America

Slavery in Beloved

The Legacy of Slavery

Frederick Douglass Slavery

Related topic

How To Write an Essay About Slavery

Formulating a Thesis Statement

Gathering and Analyzing Historical Evidence

Discussing the Legacy and Contemporary Relevance

Concluding Your Essay

Reviewing and Refining Your Essay

A Dissertation on Slavery: With a Proposal for the Gradual Abolition of It, In the State of Virginia (1796)

Contemporary Reception

Modern Reception

Never Miss an Update

Indigenous Acknowledgment

Up From Slavery