Notes on The Middle Passage and Enslavement Conditions
The Middle Passage
Overview of the Middle Passage
The Middle Passage refers to the harrowing journey enslaved Africans were forced to endure as they were transported across the Atlantic Ocean to the Americas. Crucial to the Triangular Trade, this journey involved Africa, Europe, and the Americas, and typically lasted around 12 weeks.
Key Concepts
Triangular Trade Locations: The main regions involved in Triangular Trade included Africa, the Americas (particularly Cuba, Jamaica, and Barbados), and Europe (notably Britain).
Enslaved Peoples Preceding West Africans: Prior to West Africans, Native Americans and indentured servants (often Europeans) were used on plantations.
Experiences of Enslaved Africans: Experiences during enslavement included horrific living conditions, disease, and the constant threat of violence and resistance.
Conditions Aboard the Slave Ships
Packing Methods: Two methods defined how slaves were transported:
"Tight pack": Maximal number of slaves crammed into the hold.
"Loose pack": More space per slave, but fewer slaves overall.
Living Conditions: Slaves were chained together for up to 22 hours a day, fed minimally, and deprived of basic human needs. Men, women, and children were separated, and slaves lived and died in the same confined space.
Daily Routine
Exercise and Cleaning: Slaves were brought on deck during good weather to exercise through forced dancing, while enduring rough weather kept them chained.
Disease and Health: Close quarters led to rapid disease transmission, with common illnesses including yellow fever and dysentery. Efforts like providing fruit juice were often inadequate.
Crew Conditions
Sailor Experiences: Crew members, often desperate or unaware of conditions, faced high mortality rates. Unfortunately, sailors had the morally reprehensible option to exploit enslaved women.
Rebellion Attempts
Rebellions occurred about once every ten voyages, often planned during moments when enslaved people were together on deck. Instances included attacking crew members or attempts to commandeer the ship.
Resistance Types
Examples of resistance included jumping overboard, hunger strikes, secret planning, and physical attacks on crew members. Resistance was most likely during feeding times or in cramped conditions below deck.
Reasons for Resistance and Prevention
Motivations: Fear of enslavement and solidarity among slaves encouraged rebellion.
Preventative Measures: Strategies included shackling slaves and using violence to deter attempts at rebellion.
Summary
The Middle Passage was not only a brutal journey that enslaved Africans had to endure, but it also highlighted the deep inhumanity within the Atlantic slave trade. The dreadful conditions aboard the ships, combined with resistance and the crew's brutal enforcement, created a complex and tragic narrative that is crucial for understanding this dark chapter of history.