Slave Trade and the Economies of West Indies and London

In the 18^th century, the Atlantic Slave Trade fueled trade in the Americas and Europe. In this exhibit, I will analyze the impact of the Atlantic Slave Trade on both the economies of the West Indies and London. This analysis will be described in connection to The Interesting Narrative of Olaudah Equiano. In his autobiography, Equiano recognizes abolition’s impact would have on the world economy, “As the inhumane traffic of slavery is to be taken into the consideration of the British legislature, I doubt not, if a system of commerce was established in Africa, the demand for manufacturers would most rapidly augment, as the native inhabitants will insensibly adopt the British fashions, manners, customs, &c. In proportion to the civilization, so will be the consumption of British manufacturers” (Equiano 250). Equiano utilizes this rhetoric to provide a solution that both abolishes slavery while retaining the economic structure and system. Conducting the research provided more context and deeper insight into the innerworkings of the complex Atlantic Slave Trade. Thank you for reading and enjoy my exhibit!