The Abuse of Slaves in the West Indies

The Abuse of Slaves in the West Indies

How does the author describe the treatment of female slaves in the West Indies?

The treatment of female slaves in the West Indies was not appropriate. They were treated in an ill manner and were cared of properly. Many of the masters of female slaves committed wrong with them and also committed shameful acts with these women. They did not care if the women were pregnant or suffering from any other illness (Equiano, n.d.). They treated them in an abusive manner and made sure that whatever they wanted, they achieved the same. According to the author, the treatment of female slaves was not right and many wrong steps were taken.

Concerning slavery in the West Indies, how does Olaudah Equiano differentiate between the treatment of slaves by overseers and slave owners?

The treatment of slaves by overseers is much abusive as compared to the treatment of slave owners. The overseers made sure that they abuse and mistreat the slaves regardless they are female or male. This caused a lot of negative impact of the lives of the slaves and they had to go through a lot of difficulties. The masters thought of themselves as superior to the slaves, thus made them do more and more work. On the other hand, the slave owners were not as rigid and hard as the overseers. Although they abused and mistreated their slaves, as well; however, the extent was less.

What was the 329th Act of the Assembly of “Barbadoes”, and explain Olaudah Equiano's reaction to it?

The 329th Act of the Assembly of Barbadoes was 'That if any negro, or other slave, under punishment by his master, or his order, for running away, or any other crime or misdemeanor towards his said master, unfortunately shall suffer in life or member, no person whatsoever shall be liable to a fine; but if any person shall, out of wantonness, or only of bloody-mindedness, or cruel intention, willfully kill a negro, or other slave, of his own, he shall pay into the public treasury fifteen pounds sterling.' (Equiano, n.d.) According to Olaudah Equiano the law is unjust and unmerciful; and will disgrace the barbarians.

Why was the author shocked over the attitude of the French planter on the island of “Martinico” towards his mulatto children?

The author is shocked over the attitude of the French planter towards his ...