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Sought refuge in their families, religion and music
Nearly 20% of the People on Board has died. Slaves were treated harshly, slave owners whipped and beats the slaves.
They blended their languages, cultures, and religions to create something new.
The first Africans brought to Colonial America on English occupied territory came ashore at Point Comfort, today's Fort Monroe in Hampton, Virginia. They were later transported to plantations including Jamestown. The White Lion, an English ship flying a Dutch Flag brought the first Africans to Virginia in August of 1619. The fist enslaved Africans were considered indentured servants but in 1661 the Virginia House of Burgess declared Africans to be slaves for life.
The Transatlantic trade brought Africans to North America as slaves, most of whom were agricultural workers. Eventually, racist attitudes made it much harder for Africans and their descendants to buy their freedom than it was for European indentured servants in the New World.
Sought refuge in their families, religion and music
Information on the life of enslaved Africans is based on historical records, narratives written by enslaved individuals and abolitionists, archaeological findings, oral traditions, and scholarly research. These sources provide insight into the experiences, challenges, and resilience of enslaved Africans during the transatlantic slave trade and the period of slavery in the Americas.
Africans told stories because they had wanted to keep their culture alive. When they were enslaved, africans were forbidden to read or write. As a solution, they told stories to teach their children about their culture and life.
Nearly 20% of the People on Board has died. Slaves were treated harshly, slave owners whipped and beats the slaves.
They blended their languages, cultures, and religions to create something new.
The first Africans brought to Colonial America on English occupied territory came ashore at Point Comfort, today's Fort Monroe in Hampton, Virginia. They were later transported to plantations including Jamestown. The White Lion, an English ship flying a Dutch Flag brought the first Africans to Virginia in August of 1619. The fist enslaved Africans were considered indentured servants but in 1661 the Virginia House of Burgess declared Africans to be slaves for life.
Religion was a second refuge for slaves
Enslaved Africans in New Spain made significant contributions to its economy, primarily through labor in agriculture, mining, and domestic service. They also played a role in shaping the cultural, culinary, and musical landscape of the region, influencing aspects of language, music, dance, and religion. Additionally, some enslaved Africans were able to gain freedom and achieve social mobility through skilled trades and entrepreneurship.
Music was so important to Africans because they used to tell they slave life in songs
More Africans were in America or captured and taken to America than in Africa.
Enslaved Africans ran away from sugar plantations to escape the harsh and oppressive conditions of slavery, seeking freedom and a better life. They faced brutal punishment, long hours of labor, and dehumanizing treatment, prompting many to risk their lives in search of liberation.
Religion provided enslaved Africans with a spiritual solace and a sense of hope for a better future beyond their current suffering. Family ties offered emotional support, a sense of community, and a connection to their cultural heritage, helping them to endure the hardships of slavery and maintain a sense of identity and belonging. Both religion and family provided a refuge where enslaved Africans could find strength, resilience, and moments of comfort amidst their harsh circumstances.