Read the excerpt from the journal of John Newton, a former slave ship captain, and answer the question below.
"[Captives] are perpetually on the watch to take advantage of the least negligence in the officers; and they are ready to risk their lives for the sake of obtaining their liberty."
Which of the following conclusions about the Middle Passage is best supported by Newton's observation?
- AMutinies were rare because captives lost their desire for freedom as the voyage progressed.
- BCaptives generally remained passive during the voyage, planning their resistance for after they reached land-based plantations.
- Enslaved Africans actively and continuously looked for opportunities to rebel and reclaim their freedom during the voyage.Answer
- DMiddle Passage resistance was restricted to minor covert acts rather than collective attempts to seize control of vessels.
Answer
Enslaved Africans actively and continuously looked for opportunities to rebel and reclaim their freedom during the voyage.
The correct answer is correct because John Newton's observation highlights that captives were constantly vigilant ('perpetually on the watch') and prepared to risk their lives for freedom. This provides direct evidence of active, ongoing resistance and agency among enslaved Africans during the Middle Passage, rather than passive submission.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Enslaved people actively resisted captivity through mutinies and other forms of resistance during the Middle Passage.
Estimated Time:45s