Notes on the Transatlantic Slave Trade

Introduction to Involuntary Migration: The Transatlantic Slave Trade

• Definition and Scope: The primary focus of this discussion, contrasting with voluntary crossings, is exclusively on involuntary migration, specifically referred to as the Transatlantic slave trade.

• Common Starting Point for Discussion: When engaging with the topic of the Transatlantic slave trade, it is common practice to begin with a foundational statement, often accompanied by a widely recognized visual aid (a picture) that helps to contextualize and reinforce the gravity of the statement.

• Key Statistic: A recurring and critical piece of information that initiates most discussions on this subject is the staggering number of individuals affected: over 12,000,000 Africans were forcibly transported during this period.