The Dark Economics of Slavery: Understanding the Inhumane Treatment of African Enslaves

Historical narratives often emphasize the barbarity of those who enslaved African people, but they often fail to explore the economic calculations that underpinned the inhumane treatment of these captives. The Encomium to the enforcers of slavery lies not in their unquestionable cruelty, but in their cold, economic reasoning. This article delves into these often-overlooked factors that contributed to the inhumane conditions endured by enslaved Africans during the transatlantic slave trade.

The Tragic Logic Behind Inhumane Conditions

The primary question often posed is: why was such inhumane treatment inflicted on African slaves, especially considering their value upon reaching the plantations? After all, the economic logic would suggest that it would be more beneficial to transport larger numbers of slaves in deplorable conditions, assuming some would perish, in order to make up for the loss in profit. This is precisely the economic perspective that guided many of the slave traders and owners.

The Zong Massacre: An Early Instance of Insurance Fraud

In 1781, a shocking incident occurred on the slave ship Zong. Over 100 enslaved African people died after being cast overboard when the ship's owners deliberately increased profits by claiming insurance on the "property" lost. This case is considered one of the first documented instances of insurance fraud facilitated by mass murder. The ship's owners argued their insurance claim under the pretense that the slaves' deaths were necessary to maintain the ship’s balance during a storm, even though there is no evidence to support such a claim. This instance starkly illustrates the morally bankrupt logic underpinning the slave trade.

Disposables and Economic Calculations

African slaves were not merely cargo; they were considered disposable commodities. The economics of the slave trade implied that the lives of these individuals were less valuable than the economic gains derived from keeping them healthy. Ship owners often overcrowded and underfed their captives, and poor sanitation and disease-prone conditions were the norm. These factors were tolerated because the final profit from the slaves upon arrival was considered more valuable than the health and wellbeing of the individuals.

Different Groups, Different Treatment

The treatment of slaves varied depending on the group involved. Enslavers differed in their approach to the health and welfare of the captives based on their own self-interest. African chiefs, who captured and sold most of the slaves, had the most reason to invest in the health of the captives, as healthier slaves sold for higher prices. Conversely, Portuguese sailors more often saw the value of a full ship, thus packed their cargo tightly, resulting in higher profits even with higher mortality rates.

Slave owners themselves acted in concert with their own interests. Some were meticulous about the care and maintenance of their "property," but others took a more callous approach. The economic value of the slaves was paramount, and thus, while some owners were more humane, others risked the health of their slaves to maximize profits.

Further Reading and Analysis

To further explore this complex history, you may want to read about the Zong Massacre and delve into more historical accounts that shed light on the insidious economic mechanisms of the transatlantic slave trade.

The inhumane treatment of African slaves was not merely a reflection of pure brutality, but rather a calculated, economic decision that prioritized profits over human rights. Understanding this economic angle is crucial for a more comprehensive and nuanced view of the historical context of slavery.