African Slave Trade Flashcards
When did the Atlantic Slave Trade begin?
From 15th–19th century
What major nations were involved?
Portugal, British, French, Spanish, Dutch
What was the major cause of importing slaves?
Labor shortages in the America’s (created by European desire to profit from the “New World”)
What were the advantages in having African Slaves?
- Were immune to European diseases
- Hard workers
- Experienced farmers
- Difficult to escape (due to unfamiliarity or area)
Which European nation first enslaved West Africans back to Europe?
Portugal
Which European nations was second to enslave West Africans?
Spanish (By 1650, 300K Africans were enslaved and taken to the Americas)
Where were the majority African captives exported from?
Senegal, Angola, Benin, Nigeria, Cameroon
What was the Triangular Trade Route?
It was the trading network that transported Africans to the Americas.
What was transported on the first trade route?
Manufactured goods in exchange fro captured Africans.
What was transported on the second trade route?
Captured Africans to be sold as slaves in the America’s and Caribbean islands.
What was the third route used for?
Merchants returned to Europe with goods (cotton, sugar, rum, tobacco) that they bought on the islands.
What was the middle passage?
The voyage that brought captured Africans to the Caribbean islands and Americas.
What was the “middle passage” characterized by?
The inhumane conditions and cruelty towards enslaved Africans. (20% died during the journey)
What did African rulers exchange captured Africans for?
Guns, Ammunition, and Gold
How did the Atlantic Slave trade contribute to Europe and devastate Africa?
- Europe gained wealth and development.
- Africa’s population decreased, leading to its economic underdevelopment
