Even though New England colonists typically did not have many slaves, they still benefitted from the system shown by this map. Using details from this map and Unit 2, explain why this was the case.(4 points)
One reason New England colonists benefited from the system of slavery, despite not having many slaves themselves, is through their involvement in the transatlantic slave trade. The map shows the triangular trade system, which involved the exchange of goods, including enslaved Africans, between Europe, Africa, and the Americas. New England was a major player in this trade, with ports such as Boston and Newport being key points in the transportation of slaves. By participating in this trade, New England colonists were able to profit economically, as they acted as middlemen in the exchange of goods and slaves.
Additionally, the raw materials produced by slaves in the Southern colonies, such as cotton, tobacco, and sugar, were shipped to New England for processing and manufacturing. New England was known for its industrialization and had a thriving textile industry. The raw materials from the Southern colonies provided a steady source of inputs for New England manufacturers, enabling them to produce textiles and other goods at a lower cost. This lower production cost allowed New England colonists to remain competitive in the market and increase their profits.
Furthermore, many New England colonists were involved in various industries that directly or indirectly relied on slave labor. For example, shipbuilding was a major industry in coastal New England. Slave ships were constructed in New England shipyards to transport enslaved Africans across the Atlantic. The construction and maintenance of these ships created economic opportunities for New England colonists. Additionally, industries such as rum production, which used molasses imported from the Caribbean, were also connected to the slave system. The demand for New England rum in West Africa played a significant role in perpetuating the transatlantic slave trade.
Overall, even though New England colonists had relatively few slaves compared to the Southern colonies, they still benefited from the system of slavery through their involvement in the transatlantic slave trade, reliance on Southern raw materials, and participation in industries connected to slavery.