why did the slave trade become such an important part of overseas trade?

Slaves were captured in Africa and sold in the Americas. The goods bought with this money were then sent to Europe.

This map explains the "triangular exchange" very well. It shows the importance of the slave trade.

http://www.eduplace.com/kids/socsci/books/applications/imaps/maps/g5s_u3/index.html

thanks, is that all I need?

Yes. In your answer, be sure to mention the triangular trade.

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The slave trade became such an important part of overseas trade for a combination of political, economic, and social factors. To understand why, we need to delve into history.

1. Economic Factors: Demand for Labor - The enormous demand for labor in the New World, particularly in the American colonies and plantations, drove the need for slaves. As European powers established colonies and expanded their agricultural industries, they required a large workforce to cultivate crops such as sugar, tobacco, cotton, and indigo. Slaves were seen as a cheap labor source that could be exploited for economic gain.

2. Availability of Slaves: African Enslavement - European countries discovered that they could obtain slaves from Africa, where traders and African kingdoms engaged in the capturing, selling, and enslavement of individuals. The Atlantic slave trade emerged due to African enslavement practices and the demand for slaves in the New World. European powers took advantage of existing slave networks, establishing trading posts and forging alliances with African rulers to secure a constant supply of slaves.

3. Political Factors: Colonial Expansion - European nations engaged in fierce competition for resources, colonies, and dominance. The slave trade provided a way for European powers to enrich themselves economically and strengthen their political influence. Controlling territories with abundant resources and cheap labor became essential for their empire-building ambitions.

4. Ideology and Social Factors: Racism and Prejudice - The development of racial hierarchies and prejudice contributed to the perpetuation of the slave trade. The belief in white superiority and the dehumanization of Africans fueled the demand for slaves. Europeans justified their actions by creating a narrative that portrayed Africans as inferior and suitable for enslavement.

5. Technological Advances: Transatlantic Travel - With significant advancements in navigation, shipbuilding, and transportation, Europeans were able to traverse the Atlantic Ocean more efficiently and safely. These technological advancements played a crucial role in facilitating the transportation of slaves across the treacherous Atlantic, making the trade more accessible and profitable.

In summary, the slave trade became a vital component of overseas trade due to economic demands for labor, the availability of slaves from Africa, political motivations for colonial expansion, the development of racial hierarchies, and the technological advancements that enabled extensive transatlantic travel.