Probably in songs with coded lyrics.
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Slaves sometimes found ways to subtly mock or outwit their owners through satire, humor, or passive resistance. They might play tricks, tell jokes, sing mocking songs, or engage in acts of defiance that allowed them to maintain a sense of autonomy and dignity in the face of oppression. By using humor and creativity to cope with their circumstances, slaves asserted their humanity and resilience.
Slaves were considered property by law, not as individuals with legal rights or personhood. They did not have the freedom to make decisions about their own lives and were subject to the will of their owners.
Slave owners kept slaves primarily to exploit their labor for economic gain. Slaves provided free labor that allowed slave owners to increase their wealth and maintain a lucrative lifestyle without incurring labor costs. It was a deeply unethical practice that prioritized profit over the humanity and well-being of enslaved individuals.
Former slave owners made life difficult for former slaves primarily out of a desire to maintain control and power over them. By imposing hardships and restrictions, they sought to prevent the economic, social, and political empowerment of former slaves and maintain a system of dominance and exploitation. Moreover, racism, prejudice, and a sense of superiority also played a significant role in shaping their attitudes and actions towards former slaves.
Slave owners gave their slaves their last name to assert ownership over them and to reinforce the slaves' status as property rather than individuals. This practice also helped slave owners keep track of their slaves and maintain control over their lives.
Slave owners used various methods to ensure their slaves behaved, such as physical punishment, threats of violence, surveillance, and restrictions on movement and communication. They also used psychological tactics, such as instilling fear and promoting a sense of inferiority among slaves. Additionally, some owners sought to control slaves through religious teachings or by separating families to create dependence and discourage rebellion.