Slavery in the Americas
Jan 03, 2016
Today’s Objectives
Describe the Triangle Trade and what was traded.
Explain what is meant by the “middle passage.”
Describe the evolution of the African Slave Trade and its consequences.
Leg 2 – The Middle PassageAfricans’ voyage across the Atlantic to the New World to be used as slaves in the plantation system.
The “Middle Passage”
“I’m in the belly of the beast, the bottom of the boat,And home is a place I'll never get to go.”
The Evolution of African Slavery
Some Native Americans died from fighting the Europeans but the majority died of disease.
African slaves were better at fighting off diseases. Old world Immunities that built up over time
As colonies expanded, the demand for slaves grew. “Cash Crops” (sugar and rice) = need for lots of labor Fewer indentured servants were coming from England
Slavery in the Americas
African slaves were auctioned off to the highest bidder.
Slaves worked in mines or fields or as servants.
Lifetime of bondage that was carried on for generations.
Slaves kept African traditions alive – music & stories
Resistance and rebellion
Consequences in Africa
African cultures lost their fittest, best people.
African families were separated. Introduction of guns.
Consequences in the Americas Led to growth of the colonies
Economic Cultural
Led to economic and social divisions Civil War
Intermarriage and mixed race populations