The institution of slavery has existed in the world since at least the neolithic era, with evidence predating written record. Slavery was a part of American agrarian life from when Christopher Columbus landed in the Caribbean to December 6, 1863 with Abraham Lincoln’s emancipation proclamation. Throughout that time, many white slave owners used several dehumanizing tactics to further ingrain the idea that it was natural and alright for them to own slaves. There were many ways to do this, but the simple act of commanding respect through punishment, brutal beatings, and preventing access to education are at the top of the list.
Throughout Frederick Douglass's Narrative, there are references to slaves never looking their masters in the eyes. They
Throughout Frederick Douglass's Narrative, there are references to slaves never looking their masters in the eyes. They