Slave Resistance To Slavery

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Since the beginning of slavery, resistance has been a dominant feature. Whether it was in Africa, during the middle passage or when they had finally arrived in the Caribbean, resistance towards this way of life, has been inevitable and ubiquitous. The harsh and inhumane treatment meted out by slave owners, provided slaves justifiable reasons to resist it. Significant accounts of backbreaking labor, harsh treatment, and deplorable living conditions fueled great resentment on the part of slaves. This view is well supported in the literature which suggests that wherever men and women felt they were in captivity, they resisted strongly. This argument is certainly true in modern day society but it represented the modus operandi for enslaved men and women all over the world. Resistance was indeed a natural action for slaves since captivity reminded them that a better life existed and could only be attained by vehement resistance. Numerous researchers of slavery such as Verene Shepherd and Hilary Beckles contend that from their moment of purchase or capture, slaves engaged in strong resistance to gain their freedom and subsequently obtain a better life for themselves. Some types of resistance which were utilized include active and passive resistance, specifically, day to day resistance, cultural resistance, female resistance, marronage, and revolts and rebellions.
Accounts of slave resistance have been made as early as when the slaves were captured in Africa and sold. Many African