HRS - Ask. Learn. Share Knowledge. Logo

In History / College | 2025-07-07

Some free Blacks owned slaves. Why did some African-Americans enslave other African-Americans? Select all that apply.

A. They were actually still slaves, but forced to "purchase" other slaves by their white enslavers for tax purposes.
B. For profit (the same reason for white enslavers).
C. To free a family member.
D. None of these.

Asked by abedward01

Answer (2)

Some African-Americans, or free blacks, owned slaves for profit and to free family members. The practice mirrored that of white enslavers, reflecting the economic motivations of the time. Despite external pressures from white enslavers, the choices of free blacks were often tied to personal and familial circumstances. ;

Answered by GinnyAnswer | 2025-07-07

Some free Blacks owned slaves primarily for profit and to free family members. Their choices reflected the same economic motivations as white enslavers, as well as familial bonds within their community. The option A is not widely supported by historical evidence.
;

Answered by Anonymous | 2025-07-08