The Exciting History of the Atlantic Slave Trade

What drove the Atlantic Slave Trade from 1460-1770?

Was the transportation of African slaves to the Americas the main focus?

Answer:

The Atlantic Slave Trade between 1460 and 1770 was primarily driven by colonial economic exploitation by major European powers.

The Atlantic Slave Trade, which took place from 1460 to 1770, was fueled by the economic needs of major European powers such as Spain, Portugal, England, France, and the Netherlands. These nations were looking to exploit the resources of the Americas, and African slaves were a key part of this system. The transportation of African slaves to the Americas was indeed a central aspect of the trade, as they were forced to work on plantations producing valuable goods like tobacco, sugar, rice, and cotton.

Additionally, African kingdoms like Whydah and Dahomey played significant roles in the trade by supplying European traders with captives in exchange for goods like firearms. This trade not only had a devastating impact on the demographics of Africa but also led to societal shifts and economic instability within the continent.

In conclusion, the Atlantic Slave Trade was a tragic chapter in history driven by the pursuit of wealth and resources. It had profound effects on both Africa and the Americas, shaping the course of events for centuries to come.