African Slavery and Indentured Servitude

The lecture by Dr. W explores the transition from indentured servitude to African slavery in the colonies. Initially, the English relied on indentured servants due to labor scarcity and land abundance. However, over time, African slavery became more prevalent due to economic factors, disease resistance, and agricultural skills. The lecture also highlights the harsh realities of both labor systems and the historical context leading to the Middle Passage.

What was the primary reason for the English colonies to shift from indentured servitude to African slavery?

• The scarcity of labor in England

• The cultural similarities between Africans and Europeans

• The abundance of land in the colonies

• The economic benefits of African slavery

How long was a typical contract for an indentured servant?

• Seven years

• Ten years

• Five years

• Three years

Which of the following was NOT a characteristic of indentured servitude?

• Voluntary agreement

• Temporary service

• Hereditary status

• Fixed term of service

What was a significant disadvantage of indentured servitude compared to slavery?

• Indentured servants were more expensive

• Indentured servitude was hereditary

• Indentured servants were difficult to manage

• Indentured servants were not available for life

Why did African slaves become a more attractive option for labor in the colonies?

• They were more familiar with European customs

• They were easier to educate

• They had a natural resistance to certain diseases

• They were more skilled in industrial work

What was one of the advantages of African slaves over indentured servants from the perspective of the slave owners?

• African slaves were more familiar with European languages

• African slaves could reproduce and increase the labor force

• African slaves were temporary workers

• African slaves were more educated

Which European country first explored the coast of Africa and initiated the slave trade?

• France

• England

• Portugal

• Spain

What was the impact of Bacon's Rebellion on the labor system in the colonies?

• It increased the reliance on indentured servants

• It encouraged the shift to African slavery

• It resulted in more rights for indentured servants

• It led to the abolition of slavery

Which of the following was a reason for the English to take control of the slave trade in the 17th century?

• To compete with Spain and Portugal

• To increase the population of the colonies

• To promote cultural exchange

• To reduce the cost of labor

What was the 'Middle Passage' in the context of the African slave trade?

• The journey of indentured servants to America

• The route taken by European explorers to Africa

• The migration of European settlers to the colonies

• The transportation of African slaves across the Atlantic