Chapter I.
INTRODUCTION:
SLAVERY AS MEMORY
AND HISTORY
The Introduction to Remembering Slavery, Part 2
(Historical
Background/Overview):
The second half of the introduction outlines the major
changes in slavery as an institution and in slaves' individual lives in the period
immediately leading up to and during the Civil War. This was the period in
which the former slaves who were later interviewed lived; as the authors
demonstrate, it was a period of tremendous and dynamic change, one not
necessarily representative of slavery's entire 250-year history.
This part of the introduction provides an important historical overview of
those elements of American history and slavery that are integral to the
narratives in Remembering Slavery. If you are unfamiliar with American history
of this period, you might want to read this introduction for background
information before reading the narratives. You might also choose to read or
consult other historical resources and materials. Suggestions are listed in the
Resource section.
READING GOAL: List and discuss the changes and developments that
affected individual slaves and the entire institution of slavery. Think about
changes in the following:
- Migration and Movement
- African American Families, Communities, and Customs
- Plantation Life and Structure
- Labor Practices
- Products of Farming and Industry
- Relations between Slaves and Owners
- Religious Beliefs
- Notions and Attitudes about Freedom