In the 17th and 18th centuries life was hierarchical. An individual’s place in the world was usually determined by his/her gender, religion, race, & family background. A person from a well-placed family was viewed as intrinsically superior to someone of “low birth.”  Servants were therefore seen as lower types of person than those they served.  Europeans viewed themselves as more “civilized” than other cultures they encountered, particularly Africans and Native Americans.

In preparation for this discussion, read The Reverend Hugh Jones’ description of Virginia slavery on page 231 in Kupperman.

http://historymatters.gmu.edu/d/6521

Based on the philosophy outlined above, for your initial response, develop an argument that explains whether or not racial prejudice among English settlers was the primary basis for enslavement. That is, did race determine who would be enslaved, or were there other reasons that Africans were targeted as slaves than the fact that they were not Europeans? Support your answer with specific examples.

Next, with reference to The Reverend Hugh Jones’ description of Virginia slavery, discuss whether you think Jones is for or against slavery. Use specific examples from his writing.