Afro History Unit 2 Terms

Manumission

The act of a slave owner freeing their slaves, often formalized through a declaration or document.

Fugitive Slave Law (1793)

Fugitive Slave Law (1793): Federal law that allowed slave owners to capture and reclaim runaway slaves who had escaped to free states. It mandated that authorities and citizens assist in the capture of fugitives and imposed penalties on those who aided escaped slaves.

Benjamin Banneker

Free black man who corresponded with Thomas Jefferson on issues of race and equality. Helped survey the land for the nation's capital, Washington, D.C. Recognized for his contributions to science and advocacy for civil rights.

American Colonization Societ

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The American Colonization Society (ACS) was founded in 1816 to promote the migration of free African Americans to Africa. It aimed to resettle freed slaves in Liberia, believing this would benefit both the U.S. and African Americans. The society was controversial, as it reflected racial attitudes of the time and was seen by some as a way to remove free blacks from American society

Paul Cuffee

Paul Cuffe was an African American businessman and abolitionist known for advocating for the resettlement of free blacks to Africa in the early 19th century.

Geographic Distribution of Free Blacks

In the 19th century, free Blacks in the United States were primarily concentrated in urban areas of the North, such as Philadelphia, New York City, and Baltimore. Some also lived in border states like Maryland and Virginia. The population was smaller in the South due to restrictive laws and social conditions. The geographic distribution reflected both opportunities for employment and the challenges of racial discrimination.

Uban Slavery vs. Plantation Slavery

Urban Slavery:

• Living conditions: Often better, more autonomy

• Work environment: Diverse jobs, skilled labor

• Social interactions: More interaction with free people

• Family structure: Families often stayed together

• Control: Less direct oversight from owners

Plantation Slavery:

• Living conditions: Harsh, crowded quarters

• Work environment: Labor-intensive, agricultural work

• Social interactions: Isolated from free society

• Family structure: Families frequently separated

• Control: Strict discipline and surveillance

Religious and non religous cultural practices of slaves

1. African Traditional Religions: Retained beliefs and rituals from African heritage.

2. Christianity: Adoption of Christianity, often blending with African traditions.

3. Spirituals: Creation of songs that expressed faith and resistance.

4. Rituals: Use of prayer, ceremonies, and community gatherings for spiritual support.

Non-Religious Practices:

1. Storytelling: Oral traditions to pass down history and culture.

2. Music and Dance: Expression of identity and resistance through performance.

3. Craftsmanship: Skills in weaving, pottery, and other trades.

4. Community Bonds: Formation of strong social networks for support and solidarity.

Methods of Fdsistance to slaveery

1. Rebellion: Armed uprisings against slaveholders.

2. Escape: Fleeing to free states or territories.

3. Subtle Defiance: Work slowdowns, sabotage, or feigning illness.

4. Cultural Preservation: Maintaining traditions and languages.

5. Underground Railroad: Secret network aiding escapees.

6. Legal Challenges: Court cases to gain freedom.

7. Community Support: Building networks for mutual aid and protection.

Nat Turner

Nat Turner (1800-1831) was an enslaved African American who led a major slave rebellion in Virginia in 1831, causing about 60 white deaths and widespread panic among slaveholders. Believing he was divinely chosen to free his people, Turner's rebellion ignited a national debate on slavery and fueled the U.S. abolitionist movement.

The Liberator Journal

The Liberator Journal:A historical abolitionist newspaper founded by William Lloyd Garrison in 1831. It played a crucial role in the anti-slavery movement in the United States, advocating for the immediate emancipation of all enslaved people and promoting social justice. The journal was influential in shaping public opinion and mobilizing activists against slavery until its cessation in 1865.