According to the document provided, that contains legal excerpts, race had been a clear concept before the 17th century. I came to this conclusion because of the documents. The September 17th 1630, excerpt states “Hugh Davis to be soundly whipped” because he defiled his body by lying with a Negro. In conclusion, this excerpt proves race existed earlier since no further definition was provided; therefore, it gives the assumption that there had been a previous description of race defined by the law. This conclusion shows that racism existed, and in order for there to be racism, there must have been some definitions and ideas of racism. The Act of 1639/40 states, “ALL persons except negroes are to be provided with arms and ammunition…” giving
