History And Ancestry Related To A Slavery Biography

By Roger Wagner


While not as volatile as during other times in history, the current economical, racial and social climate is currently in great chaos. With the onset of new racial inequality, the recent rise of White Supremacists and power structures which have done little to help ease the situation, it is important to look back on history. In one case, a good place to learn about the atrocities of the past with regards to race is through a slavery biography.

There are not many biographies written by actual slaves though some personal letters have been discovered and published. Although, there is one biography in which many professors, teachers and scholars agree shows an accurate account of the times. The biography, written by Reverend Charles Thompson describes in detail the experiences the man had has a young boy and young adult in the slave trade. In fact, many compare the book to a front row seat when it comes to learning and viewing the history of the slave trade.

Born into slavery, Charles has a great number of stories to tell. In most cases, the stories refer to experiences the boy had with an owner. The slave master and owner, Mr. Kirkwood owned multiple slaves and plantations. As such, when the owner passed away, the slaves were separated in an attempt to avoid escape and rebellion.

After the mother of the boy died at age 37, an uncle hid from slave owners in order to remain with a wife. In fact, Ben, the uncle, evaded the blood hounds and slave owners. While this is the case, Ben ultimately surrendered when the man was informed that the couple could remain together and work on a different plantation. At which time, Charles describes becoming an adult, then being hired out to other owners while attempting to teach Christianity to other slaves.

In order to gain insight into the life of Ben and Charles, there are two films which have purported to show slavery in a true light. These are the mini-series known as Roots by Alex Hailey, and the film Django Unchained. In both cases, there is a great deal of graphic violence as was the case during the time. As such, the films can often be difficult, especially for viewers under the age of 12, though do show some of the most important history related to slavery.

When it comes to the history of the time, it is a sad and true tale of abuse, ownership, rape, violence and torture. In most cases, slaves were considered personal property who could be bought and sold as desired. While there were entire families sold into slavery, individual members were often sold off to other plantations. As a result, many families were broken up and were never able to reunite.

Most slaves had to perform chores, duties and other tasks as requested or face severe punishment. During the slave trade, this work was performed free of charge. While room and board were often included on the plantation, most quarters were in poor condition with the slaves being offered very little in the way of food, drink or nourishment.

It is sad to think that many individuals living today, Black, White or otherwise may have been the descendants of slaves whom were raped and tortured by slave owners and masters. While this is the case, many are learning of these connections through current DNA testing. In many cases, the individuals and families can handle the news while it can tear others apart.




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