Discussions about slavery continue to stir emotions. This exhibition examines the journeys experienced by enslaved Africans brought to the United States. From the journey into bondage, travels while enslaved, and escaping to freedom, voyages -- forced and voluntary -- shaped the way slavery evolved and, ultimately, ended in America.
From Africa to America
The journey from Africa to America was long, dangerous, and cruel. Traveling in the dank holds of cramped ships and deprived of human necessities, many enslaved Africans did not survive the trip.Journeys While Captive
In America, the business of selling slaves became a substantial industry. Upon arrival in America, enslaved Africans were held as merchandise and treated as trade goods. Most Africans had no control over where they were sent or taken while enslaved. These painful journeys separated families, often irrevocably.
The Final Journey
African Americans faced barriers to freedom and to travel nearly everywhere. Slaveholders went to great lengths to prevent their slaves from escaping, and laws and general public sentiment were rarely on an escapee's side.
The Underground Railroad was a powerful instrument used by many to gain freedom. The "Railroad" concealed and provided aid to escaped slaves trying to reach regions where slavery was illegal. Purchasing freedom was yet another option. There were no conventional journeys out of slavery. There were high stakes -- the trip could be extremely dangerous.
The Thirteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution formally abolished slavery in 1865. But, in some areas, it was largely ignored. Many African Americans began making decisions to move to new areas in search of equality.
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Credits
Developed by Roxanne Berschler and Tara O'Connor, interns for Museum on Main Street