Reckoning with Slavery

In Reckoning with Slavery, author Jennifer L. Morgan delves into the harrowing lived experiences of enslaved African women during the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. Published in 2021, this compelling work spans 277 pages, offering a profound exploration of early modern concepts of trade, race, and commodification within the Black Atlantic. Morgan meticulously examines the journey of these women—from capture and transport to sale and childbirth—highlighting how they were often reduced to mere commodities during the Middle Passage. Vulnerable to exploitation, separated from their families at slave markets, and subjected to oppressive laws that enslaved their children, these women's stories reveal the stark realities of their existence. This essential read not only sheds light on the historical context but also invites readers to reflect on the enduring impact of slavery in contemporary society. Discover the intricate narratives that shape our understanding of race and history today.