AP African American Studies Test: Unit 2

What was the domestic slave trade?

The forced migration of enslaved people from the northern South to the expanding plantations of the Deep South during the 1800s.

How did cotton impact the development of the domestic slave trade?

The cotton gin and expansion of cotton plantations increased the demand for slave labor, leading to forced migration through the domestic slave trade.

How did the domestic slave trade impact enslaved families?

It often separated families, highlighting the dehumanizing nature of slavery and the resilience of African Americans in preserving familial ties.

Why did abolitionists write about slave auctions?

To expose the inhumanity of slavery and appeal to the moral conscience of the public, aiming to increase support for the abolitionist movement.

What were slave codes and why were they created?

Slave codes were laws enacted to control the behavior of enslaved people and maintain white supremacy.

How did slave codes impact enslaved African Americans?

They stripped enslaved people of basic rights, preventing resistance and perpetuating oppression.

What was the significance of Dred Scott v. Sandford?

The 1857 Supreme Court case ruled that African Americans had no legal standing to sue, reinforcing their lack of rights under the Constitution.

What were spirituals?

Religious songs combining African traditions with Christianity, serving as resistance, hope, and solidarity among enslaved communities.

How did African traditions influence music in enslaved communities?

By preserving rhythms, call-and-response singing, and using instruments, which helped maintain cultural connections.

What was the Haitian Revolution?

A successful slave revolt leading to the establishment of an independent black nation in Haiti.

What impact did the Haitian Revolution have globally?

It inspired enslaved and free black people worldwide, creating resistance movements and instilling hope for black liberation.

What role did the maroons play?

Maroons were communities of escaped enslaved people, representing self-determination against slavery.

What was the purpose of the maroon wars?

To defend the autonomy of maroon communities from colonial powers and prevent re-enslavement.

What did Emigrationists believe regarding African Americans?

They believed African Americans should relocate to Africa to escape systemic racism and build independent communities.

What did Anti-Emigrationists believe?

They believed African Americans should fight for equality and rights in the U.S., asserting their right to be citizens.

Describe daily forms of resistance demonstrated by enslaved people.

They included working slowly, sabotaging, maintaining cultural practices, and escaping, demonstrating agency against the institution of slavery.

What was the purpose of Mutual Aid Societies?

To provide financial assistance and support to free black communities, fostering community and self-reliance.

How did black women contribute to social justice movements?

Black women led abolitionist movements and women's suffrage, shaping the fight for racial and gender equality.

What were radical resistance strategies promoted by Black activists?

Included organizing uprisings, forming abolitionist groups, and using legal systems to challenge discriminatory laws.

What is the Underground Railroad?

A network of secret routes and houses helping enslaved people escape to freedom, directly supporting the abolitionist movement.

Who was Harriet Tubman?

A conductor on the Underground Railroad, leading many to freedom and advocating for justice as an abolitionist.

What role did black leaders like Harriet Tubman play in photography?

They were portrayed with dignity and strength, challenging racial stereotypes.

Why is Juneteenth significant?

It commemorates the emancipation of the last enslaved people in Texas, symbolizing freedom and resilience.

What inequities did African Americans face during the Civil War?

They faced lower pay, limited opportunities for leadership, and discrimination within the military.

How did Black soldiers’ service impact Black communities?

Their service instilled pride, advanced the push for civil rights, and challenged notions of racial inferiority.

What is the legal status of citizenship?

Citizenship is the status of being a legal member of a nation.

What does abolition mean?

The movement to end slavery.

What is an activist?

Someone who campaigns for social or political change.

What is resistance in the context of oppression?

Actions taken to oppose oppression, ranging from subtle acts like work slowdowns to overt rebellions.

What is an auction?

A public sale where goods, including enslaved people, were sold to the highest bidder.