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Hansard, Andre

History

2006

MA

This paper examines the discrimination of the black population in seventeenth century Virginia and New York through statute laws and customs. It also explains the development of white privilege that occurred during this period in these two colonies. It analyzes the scholarship of historians who have written on the subject area of race and slavery during the time period of the seventeenth century. In regard to Virginia this paper examines the social status of the first blacks that entered the colony. Whether or not racism preceded slavery or vice-versa. Why the switch from indentured servitude to chattel slavery occurred by the end of the seventeenth century and who was responsible for this transition. Finally, this paper answers the question, did slavery become established through law, custom, or both? In regard to New York this paper examines the Dutch establishment of slavery in the colony of New Netherland. The rights and liberties that the black population enjoyed under Dutch rule. The controversial policy of "half-freedom." The influence of the Dutch West India Company in the colony and the development of the slave trade. Finally this paper explains the transition from Dutch to English rule and the changes in custom and laws that affected the black population. Overall, this paper compares and contrasts the Dutch system of slavery to that of the English. The role of religion among the black population in Virginia and New York. It examines the cooperation between whites and blacks in both colonies that challenged the development of white privilege. Finally, it analyzes why chattel slavery and racism became accepted practices in Virginia and New York and why these choices were not inevitable.