CDL: Transatlantic Abolition

1.  How/why did Americans view slavery as acceptable during the early decades of the republic?

The African slaves were cheap labor for the Americans on their farms.  Americans viewed slavery as acceptable in the early decades of the republic because they had a view that anyone with darkened skin was a lesser being and therefore could be enslaved.

2. If the end of the slave trade was considered a critical first step in abolishing slavery, why were the southern states in favor of banning the slave trade?

The southern states favored banning the slave trade because it increased the value of the naturally born slaves in the U.S. that were sold and transported west. 

3. What were some future consequences of banning the importation of slaves into America?

One positive consequence was that the ban of slaves into America was a cooperative effort with multiple nations.   One negative consequence was that the southern slave owner were profiting with an increased value for natural born slaves being sold and transported west. 

This was a very big step in equality in America and even though it would take decades for all U.S. citizens to have equal rights it was a step in the correct moral direction for our country.