Summary

Between 1500 and the late 1800s, millions of Africans were captured and brought across the Atlantic Ocean to the Americas as slaves. The transatlantic slave trade proved enormously profitable, but opposition to it gradually grew. Opponents of the transatlantic trade argued that slavery was wrong and immoral, marked by violence, suffering, and death. Supporters of the transatlantic trade argued that slavery was an ancient institution practiced by people all over the world—including by Africans themselves—and justified by both the Bible and Christianity. Was the transatlantic slave trade an inhumane practice to be banned, or a source of economic strength to be tolerated?

This eBook examines the transatlantic slave trade and delves into the pro and con arguments that surrounded it. It includes a timeline, primary sources, a bibliography, and a "Learn More About" chapter with more information on the topic.

Specifications

eBook