Confronting America's Legacy of Slavery.

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America's fear of confronting the history of chattel slavery runs deep. This is because chattel slavery is one of the most brutal and dehumanizing forms of slavery that has ever existed in human history, and the legacy of this system still haunts African Americans today.

​One of the most horrific examples of chattel slavery was the practice of using black babies as "gator bait" in the Southern United States. This practice involved tying a live baby to a rope and dangling it over the water to attract alligators.

Black mothers were also forced to nurse their slave owner's children instead of their own, leaving their babies to die of starvation. These inhumane acts are just two examples of the countless atrocities that were committed during this dark period of American history.
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The lasting effects of chattel slavery are still felt by African Americans today. The systemic racism and discrimination that resulted from this system have had a profound impact on black communities, including poverty, lack of access to education and healthcare, and police brutality.

Moreover, the psychological trauma of chattel slavery continues to be passed down from generation to generation. This trauma can manifest as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder, among other mental health issues.
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​It is essential to confront and acknowledge the history of chattel slavery because it is a fundamental part of American history.

​The United States was built on the backs of enslaved Africans, and their contributions have been largely ignored or erased from the history books.

By acknowledging this history and the pain it has caused, we can begin to heal as a nation and work towards a more just and equitable future.

Additionally, acknowledging this history is crucial for understanding the current state of race relations in America. The systemic racism and discrimination that resulted from chattel slavery did not end with the Civil War or even the Civil Rights Movement. ​

​It is still prevalent in our institutions and systems today, and it must be dismantled if we are to achieve true equality and justice for all.

​In conclusion, the history of chattel slavery is painful and difficult to confront, but it is essential if we are to move forward as a nation.

​ By acknowledging this history and its lasting effects, we can work towards a more just and equitable society for all Americans.