Race played a huge role in shaping societal treatments towards immigrants, for example, the white immigrants such as Portuguese and Maderians (Foote 180). The Indentureship contracts were not imposed on them, even though the passage was part of the contract; it was pre-paid at public expense (Foote 180). These immigrants developed a strong relationship with the white ruling classes. Although they received unfair treatment, they had an advantage over the Black slaves as they received bonus payments (Foote 180). The contracts given to indentured workers outlined the number of years required to work. However, the slaves were required to work for the rest of their lives, like their parents and grandparents. Unlike the indentured workers who were
