Negro Spiritual Research Paper

During the middle of the 15th century, Africa became invested in a one-sided relationship with Europe. As the relationship expanded, it led to the development and wealth of Europe. Consequently, the relationship between the continents only led to the destruction and depopulation of Africa. The 15th century brought the kidnapping and enslavement of African people, majority who were from West Africa. Once captured and loaded on boats, the slaves would be sent to the New World and stripped of any identity they once knew. All religions, rituals, and names were taken from these people. Despite being separated from their freedom of expression, Africans were allowed religious freedom as a form of control by their slave masters. Africans were also allowed to sing at religious services and while working in the field. Thus Negro Spirituals came about. Negro spirituals first came into existence during enslavement. However, Africans were involved in music since the time that they inhabited their homeland. When brought to the New World, African were not allowed to speak English or their native language while working. This is when Negro spirituals began to be sung more often in the fields. The …show more content…
Negro spirituals began as a form of communication between slaves working in the field. The spirituals were methods of escaping to freedom and a way to praise a higher power in the field. Once Christianity became more accepted in the African community, spirituals that were religiously based came prevalent. Religious spirituals brought forth new methods of expression. These methods included ring shouts, call and response and pat juba. Post antebellum, Negro spirituals became popular as groups such as Fisk Jubilees and other HBCU chorus toured the nation. Also composers such as Roland Hayes, Charles Albert Tindley and Harry T. Burleigh brought Negro spirituals to