Tacky Rebellion In The Obean

310 Words2 Pages
According to Bilby and Handler (2004), obeah is defined as a combination of “a wide variety of beliefs and practices involving the control or channelling of supernatural spiritual forces, usually for socially beneficial ends such as treating illness, bringing good fortune, protecting against harm, and avenging wrongs” (p. 153). Slavery was widespread throughout the Caribbean during the 1700’s, therefore slave revolts were very common. An overseer slave known as Tacky decided to plan a revolt that may grant him along with the other slaves their freedom. After the Tacky Rebellion in 1760, the movement towards the illegalization of obeah began in the Caribbean. Tacky was said to have led the Koromantyn slaves, giving them a “magical preparation