Liberty on the Waterfront: American Maritime Culture in the Age of Revolution Ch. 2 as a reference
Were African Americans better off at sea than on land?
What was the influence of class on the American Navy?
Why was gender such a crucial issue in the Navy?
1. According to Liberty on the Waterfront: American Maritime Culture in the Age of Revolution Chapter 2, African Americans were generally better off at sea than on land. On ships, they had more opportunities for autonomy, skill development, and potential for economic advancement. Many African Americans found employment as sailors, stewards, cooks, and even as free or paid crew members. At sea, they often faced less discrimination and had more opportunities for social mobility compared to the highly racialized and segregated society on land.
2. Class played a significant influence on the American Navy during the Age of Revolution. The navy was primarily composed of sailors from working-class backgrounds who saw naval service as a means of economic opportunity. However, there was also a noticeable class divide within the navy, with those in higher-ranking positions and officer roles typically belonging to the upper class or the elite. The lower-class sailors often faced harsh living conditions, long hours, and minimal pay, while the officers enjoyed more privileges and better treatment.
3. Gender was a crucial issue in the Navy because it fundamentally challenged traditional gender norms and roles. The Navy was a male-dominated space, and women were generally excluded from serving in official capacities. The presence of women on board ships as wives, prostitutes, and sometimes as disguised sailors raised questions around gender roles, power dynamics, and sexuality. Men in the Navy had to navigate their masculinity in an environment where traditional expectations collided with the realities of life at sea. The presence of women also created tensions and conflicts among the sailors, raising questions about discipline and morale.