Free Blacks Owning Slaves: An Unveiled Truth of Slavery in Colonial America
Contrary to popular belief, it is true that free blacks owned slaves in the United States and its colonies. This phenomenon is often overshadowed by the narrative of the predominantly white slave-owning class. However, a closer look into the historical records reveals that around 4,000 free black individuals purchased slaves, predominantly white, after gaining their freedom. This article delves into the reality of free blacks owning slaves and its implications on the broader understanding of American slavery.
Free Blacks and Slavery
It is important to contextualize the number of slaves brought to North America. Only approximately 440,000 black slaves were sold, while white slaves outnumbered them significantly. Many of these white slaves were brought in prior to the arrival of the first black slaves. After gaining their freedom, free blacks often acquired land and resources. However, due to limited financial means, they typically purchased white slaves, as they were cheaper options.
A notable case to consider is that of Anthony Johnson, a free black man who owned three white and one black slave. His argument in court, which he won, highlighted the differing working capabilities of the slaves, with the white slaves being deemed more efficient. This case laid a precedent for longer periods of servitude, particularly for black slaves. Scholarly evaluations suggest that after this case, more black slaves were subjected to longer durations and eventually permanent servitude.
The Complexity of Slave Auctions
Slave auctions were not exclusive to white bidders, as black and Native American bidders also participated. Indigenous slave buyers, like the Mohawk chief, were significant slave owners, with one notable chief owning over 50 slaves. Upon the outlawing of white slave ownership in 1775, he moved his remaining 30 black slaves to Ontario, Canada, where they were honored with a city named in their honor, and a statue still stands today.
The Genetics of Slave Ownership
Studies on African American ancestry have revealed that on average, they have approximately 30% European and 3% Native American ancestry. This genetic diversity suggests that slave ownership was not purely racial and that slave owners of different races engaged in sexual relations with the goal of reproducing more slaves. This practice was particularly advantageous for slave owners as it led to more slave births, increasing their labor force.
It is also important to consider that female white slaves were also objects of sexual relations and birthing, but to varying extents. African slave owners, along with white and Native American ones, sought to increase the slave population through these practices.
Unveiling the Complexity of Slavery
While race is a significant factor in the narrative of American slavery, it is crucial to recognize that race did not create or cause slavery. Slavery existed worldwide in many forms and societies throughout history. Race is a part of the complex factors that need to be considered in understanding the institution of slavery. The misrepresentation of this history often serves political and racist agendas, which distorts the accurate depiction of the complexities surrounding slavery.
Understanding the full picture of slavery, including free blacks owning slaves, is essential for a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of American history. This reality is a crucial component in the broader narrative of human rights and the evolving nature of the slave trade.