The closeness and heat on the ship, along with overcrowding, cause sickness and death among the slaves. Chains and filth make their situation even worse. Some slaves jump overboard and commit suicide. Sexual assault is a constant threat. The pain and trauma can last for generations. The ship owners profit from packing the ship tightly, but this leads to even more deaths. The Middle Passage is notorious for its horrific conditions, comparable to the worst experiences in history.