Global. Consumption & Exploitation part 2

Discussion focuses on a primary source text about slavery from the late 1700s.
Originally produced in Philadelphia, likely by a Quaker community.
Significant anti-slavery activism during this period, especially among Pennsylvania Quakers.
The text circulated specifically in the Rhode Island colony.

Rhode Island during this time was still a part of the British Empire and not yet an independent state.
Slavery was legal in Rhode Island, as in all colonies of British America.
Rhode Island's economy was heavily invested in the slave trade due to a large merchant shipping fleet.
Notable slave trading families, including the Brown family, were influential, with connections to establishments like Brown University.

Aimed at slaveholders and financiers of the slave trade in Rhode Island.
The author critiques the societal treatment of enslaved individuals, contending:
- The contempt for enslaved people leads white children to view black individuals as comparable to domestic animals.
- This systemic thinking fosters long-term prejudice, embedding the notion that African descendants are lesser beings in society.

The pamphlet argues that societal prejudice against black individuals is entrenched:
- "…creatures have always looked upon so vastly below themselves can stand on the same footing…"
- The text emphasizes the moral obligation of society to treat everyone equally under the concept of a universal father.
- Conveys that profound prejudices not only affect public perception but hinder the acceptance of justice.

Mid-18th century, Rhode Island had the highest proportion of enslaved persons to white persons among northern colonies.
State’s economy relied heavily on maritime slave trade operations.
Laws governing slavery in Rhode Island were among the most brutal.

Post-independence (after 1784), Rhode Island began a gradual emancipation process, unlike states that pursued immediate abolition.
Even decades later, individuals remained enslaved.
The pamphlet continues to influence anti-slavery discourse for years beyond its publication.

The author presents a critical view on the moral credibility of slave ownership:
- Ownership of slaves implicates individuals in the original sin of slavery even if not directly involved in the capture.
- "…impossible for anyone of their own seeking and choice to be concerned in slave keeping or partake of the profits without incurring a degree of the original guilt."
- All descendants of enslaved individuals are inextricably linked to the historical injustices of slavery.

The text raises ethical questions concerning enslavement based on lineage:
- The pamphlet argues against the notion that children of enslaved people should inherit the status of slavery.
- Compares this to societal norms, which do not punish children for parents' crimes.
- Cites specific historical examples, including children born of Thomas Jefferson and Sally Hemings, highlighting moral inconsistencies in maintaining the status quo.

The pamphlet serves as a religiously-based treatise challenging the immorality of slavery.
It critiques the notion of inheriting slave status, bolstering arguments against slavery's permanence in societal structure.
Anticipates the evolving national discourse and conflict surrounding slavery over the next several decades, culminating in the U.S. Civil War.

Connects to previous discussions about global consumption, particularly the sugar trade, to illustrate the interconnectedness of economic activities and their impact on slavery.
Asserts that anyone benefiting economically from slavery, whether directly or indirectly, shares responsibility for the injustices perpetrated.
"There are no innocent bystanders in this world."

The text captures the divisiveness within early America regarding slavery, setting the stage for future debates and conflicts.
Describes events, including riots and violence related to slavery discussions, indicating deep societal rifts within what would become the United States.