US - 108
Documentary Study Guide
9/16/10
Slavery and the Making of America, Vol. 1 – The Downward Spiral
On Thursday, we’ll be watching a documentary on the origins of racial slavery in America.
Three areas will be examined: Dutch New Amsterdam (New York City); Virginia; and Carolina.
Keep in mind that “race,” as we understand the term, did not exist in 1600. By 1740 that had
clearly changed. As you watch this documentary, consider how certain factors – economic,
political, and social – aligned in such a manner as to transform a temporary condition of
indentured servitude into a permanent form of slavery. It would be a really good idea for you to
print this sheet and bring it to class.
Questions to consider:
How did the status of blacks in the colonies change over time? Why did it change?
How did the treatment of African Americans differ by region? What is the difference between a
“society with slaves” and a “slave society”?
Why is the Stono Rebellion of 1739 considered an important watershed in the history of
American Slavery?
Important terms:
Atlantic creoles
“half-freedom”
Emanuel Driguez
Barbados
Stono Rebellion (S. Carolina)
Slave (Black) Codes
