Criminal
The Sale
Dec 6, 2024
Rachel Swarns, a contributing writer for The New York Times, joins Letitia Clark, a clinical radiology professor and descendant of Edward Queen, along with Jeremy Alexander, who uncovers his enslaved family history. They discuss the painful legacy of slavery connected to the Jesuit Church in Maryland. The conversation highlights court cases where enslaved individuals sought freedom, personal stories of struggle, and the emotional journey of discovering familial ties to this dark past. Their insights reflect on ethics, family legacies, and the ongoing quest for justice.
46:11
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Quick takeaways
- The establishment of the Roman Catholic Church in America was deeply intertwined with slavery, showcasing the contradictory nature of its mission.
- The legal struggles of enslaved individuals like the Mahoney brothers highlight the agency and resistance against oppressive systems within colonial America.
Deep dives
Foundation of Catholicism in America
In 1633, ships carrying Jesuit priests set sail from England to establish a Catholic colony in Maryland, marking the inception of the Roman Catholic Church in America. Upon arrival, the priests quickly began the colonization process, acquiring land and initiating tobacco plantations that relied heavily on enslaved labor from West Africa. This early Catholic establishment not only contributed to the growth of the Church but also participated in the troubling institution of slavery, as priests themselves engaged in slave sales and ownership. The duality of their mission to save souls while simultaneously exploiting human beings highlights the complex moral landscape of early American Catholicism.
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