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To what extent were religious factors the main reason for the development of the slave trade? During the 18th and early 19th centuries, religious denominations such as the Church of England believed that those enslaved would benefit from exposure to Christian ideals - Scottish Highers History - Question 7 - 2019
Question 7
To what extent were religious factors the main reason for the development of the slave trade? During the 18th and early 19th centuries, religious denominations suc... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:To what extent were religious factors the main reason for the development of the slave trade? During the 18th and early 19th centuries, religious denominations such as the Church of England believed that those enslaved would benefit from exposure to Christian ideals - Scottish Highers History - Question 7 - 2019
Step 1
Religious factors
Answer
During the 18th and early 19th centuries, various religious groups, particularly the Church of England, believed in the moral obligation to convert enslaved people to Christianity. This belief led to justifications for their enslavement, with clergymen reassuring that converting slaves could lead to them being considered good Christians. However, the reality was that missionary efforts were entangled with economic motives, and clergymen often participated in slave trading.
Step 2
Other contributing factors
Answer
The formation of the slave trade was also significantly impacted by various factors:
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Military Factors: Conflicts between European powers increased the demand for labor, as victories often led to the acquisition of territories where slave labor was deemed essential.
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Labor Shortages: The cultivation of cash crops like sugar required a significant labor force. Debilitating diseases decimated the local populations, necessitating the importation of African labor to maintain productivity.
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Economic Interests: The economic viability of the slave trade was buoyed by banks and financing institutions that sought profits from slave trading, aligning religious motives with capital interests.