The Slavery discussion blog
It has been 200 years since the abolition of the slave trade – and now the people of Africa are asking for an apology for something our ancestors did.
From 1729 – 1807, it was lawful for black Africans to be shipped from Africa, and used as cheap labour in England. Families were often split up and there was a good chance that they would never see each other again. Women were often raped and used to clean households. If a slave disobeyed their owner they would receive a number of punishments. For example; They would receive no food for days but still have work to the best of their ability tied to the branches of a tree where their backs would be whipped until they screamed.
All of these actions are not condoned and I for one am really ashamed of what my ancestors did – but is it necessary that we pay for what they did?
In History lessons at school we learn facts that are helpful but gruesome. From our education we have discovered the brutality and deplorable treatment that the black slaves received.
So – If we are so against slavery why are we wearing the latest Nike products that are made in Chinese sweatshops, with seven year old workers working for 70p a day.
So may I ask – why is there no coverage about that?
