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In what ways were the lives of Americans affected by slavery? Explain your answer. - AQA - GCSE History - Question 5 - 2021 - Paper 1
Question 5
In what ways were the lives of Americans affected by slavery? Explain your answer.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:In what ways were the lives of Americans affected by slavery? Explain your answer. - AQA - GCSE History - Question 5 - 2021 - Paper 1
Step 1
Complex explanation of changes
Answer
Slavery profoundly affected the lives of Americans, particularly during the 19th century. One of the most significant impacts was the economic reliance of the Southern states on slave labor. Plantation owners profited immensely from crops such as tobacco, sugarcane, and cotton. By 1861, the South produced 75% of the world's cotton, making it a cornerstone of the U.S. economy and pivotal for global trade.
Additionally, the social fabric of American life was deeply intertwined with slavery. Families were often torn apart, as enslaved individuals could be sold at any time, which caused lasting emotional and social distress. After the Civil War, former slaves and their descendants sought to reunite with lost family members, highlighting the long-term repercussions of this social disruption.
Furthermore, the institution of slavery fueled great ideological divides within the country, ultimately leading to the Civil War. The moral and ethical questions surrounding slavery prompted widespread debate, influencing American politics and society well beyond the war itself.
Step 2
Developed explanation of changes
Answer
The impact of slavery wasn't limited to economic factors; it extended to legal and social structures as well. After the Civil War, the Reconstruction era saw efforts to integrate formerly enslaved individuals into society. However, the introduction of Black Codes aimed to restrict their freedoms and maintain white supremacy, resulting in prolonged social inequities.
Moreover, the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863 marked a significant turning point, as many African Americans fought in the Civil War for their freedom, leading to more than 38,000 casualties among Black soldiers alone. This participation signified a crucial shift in the roles of African Americans in society, albeit amidst significant resistance.