Disability in American slavery

Illustrations of the American anti-slavery almanac for 1840 (cropped)

Disability in American Slavery refers to the physical and mental impairments that enslaved individuals in the United States experienced from the seventeenth century until the abolition of slavery in 1865. Disabilities among enslaved people were both a cause and a consequence of the brutal conditions of slavery, including excessive labor, malnutrition, inadequate medical care, and physical abuse. This article explores the types of disabilities prevalent among enslaved populations, their impact on the lives of the enslaved, and the attitudes of slaveholders towards disability.

Types of Disabilities

Disabilities among enslaved individuals ranged from physical impairments such as lost limbs, blindness, and chronic illnesses to mental health issues including depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Many of these conditions were direct results of the harsh living and working conditions imposed by slavery.

Physical Disabilities

Physical disabilities were common and often resulted from work-related injuries, torture, or punishment. For example, the loss of limbs could occur from accidents in the fields or as a result of deliberate mutilation as punishment. Diseases such as tuberculosis, malnutrition-related illnesses, and conditions stemming from poor living conditions were also prevalent.

Mental Health Issues

The mental health of enslaved individuals was severely impacted by the trauma of slavery. The constant threat of violence, separation from family members, and the overall dehumanizing nature of slavery contributed to a range of mental health issues, including depression and PTSD.

Impact on Enslaved Individuals

Disabilities could affect an enslaved person's value to their owner, often leading to a harsher existence. Those who were unable to work due to disability were sometimes subjected to even worse treatment, abandoned, or sold. However, enslaved communities often showed compassion and solidarity, providing care for disabled members to the best of their abilities.

Slaveholders' Attitudes

Slaveholders' attitudes towards disability were largely influenced by economic considerations. An enslaved person's ability to work determined their value, and disabilities could diminish this value. Consequently, slaveholders often viewed disabled enslaved people as a burden. However, this did not prevent the exploitation of disabled enslaved individuals in roles deemed suitable for their condition.

Legacy

The legacy of disability in American slavery is a complex topic that intersects with issues of race, health, and inequality. The experiences of disabled enslaved individuals highlight the extreme inhumanity of slavery and its lasting impact on African American health and disability awareness.