African Americans and the Legacy of Slave-Holder Names: Why Change or Keep?

Many people do not give a second thought to their last names, which they have inherited through generations of their families. But for African Americans who trace their names back to slaveholders, the decision to keep their names or change them can be a deeply personal and complex one. This article explores the historical context, reasons for keeping or changing slave-derivative names, and the modern social implications of these decisions.

Historical Context: The Importance of Names in Slavery

After the ratification of the 13th Amendment, which abolished slavery, illiterate ex-slaves often struggled to learn how to read and write. This period saw the emergence of black-owned newspapers, where ex-slaves placed ads seeking help to locate relatives who had been sold away. The primary motivation for former slaves to leave their masters was the hope of reuniting with family members. However, bearing a name that could be traced back to slaveholders could have been a hindrance.

Former slaves were often given new last names, making it easier for them to track down their relatives. Some ex-slaves, like Booker T. Washington, simply used a name their mother had called them all along, while others, like George Washington Carver, adopted a new name to avoid confusion.

Reasons for Keeping Slave-Holder Names

There are several reasons why African Americans may choose to keep their slave-derivative names:

Convenience and Familiarity

Many African Americans, particularly older generations, may have grown up with these names and might find it easier to stick with what they know. For example, Booker T. Washington initially chose the name "Booker Washington" as if it had always been his, and later added the middle name "Taliaferro." This choice was more about convenience and identity rather than a deep emotional attachment to the name.

Honoring Ancestral Heritage

Some African Americans honor their ancestors by keeping names that trace back to slaveholding families. This is a way to pay homage to the individuals who were once part of their lineage, even if those individuals held a position of power that was unjust.

Reasons for Changing Slave-Holder Names

On the other hand, many African Americans choose to change their names to break the ties with their slave-derivative origins. This decision can be motivated by a desire to create a new identity or to distance themselves from the historical legacy associated with their names. Examples include:

Breaking Free from Historical Shackles

By changing their names, African Americans can symbolically break free from the legacy of slavery and remind themselves that their identity is rooted in more than just the names they inherit.

Creating a New Identity

For some, changing their names is a way to start anew and create a sense of self-determination. This can be especially empowering for younger generations who may be tired of the weight of history.

Modern Implications and Conflicts

Current societal norms and government-issued identification, like Social Security numbers, assign names at birth. This makes name changes more complicated and less convenient. Additionally, there is no guarantee that changing a name will completely sever ties with slave-derivative heritage. For example, a name like "Zelensky" or "Bergoglio" (Pope Francis's surname) is unmistakably not African American-derived.

Contemporary Challenges

In today's world, name changes can be a challenging and costly process. Furthermore, the decision to change one's name is not without its pitfalls. The desire to break free from slave-derivative names can be a complex emotional and social journey, as these names are often deeply intertwined with one's cultural heritage and personal identity.

Conclusion

The decision to keep or change slave-derivative names is a deeply personal and evolving one. It requires a balance between honoring one's heritage and creating a new identity. Understanding the historical context and the various reasons for keeping or changing these names can provide valuable insight into the complex mix of identity, history, and personal choice that surrounds the names of African Americans.