Unveiling Women's Roles in Slavery

This chapter investigates the significant but often ignored participation of white women in the American slave trade, debunking the myth that only men were involved. Recent research from Ohio State University shows that women played active roles as buyers and sellers in nearly 30% of slave transactions, pushing for a reevaluation of historical narratives regarding female involvement in slavery. The discussion also highlights the complexities of women's economic motivations and the impact of coverture laws, revealing that women used slavery as a means to attain wealth and status amid societal constraints.