What role did African rulers play in the Atlantic Slave Trade?

African rulers played a significant role in the Atlantic Slave Trade, often capturing and selling their own people into slavery.

African rulers and elites were integral to the operation of the Atlantic Slave Trade. They were often the ones who captured their own people, usually prisoners of war or criminals, and sold them to European traders. This was a lucrative business for African rulers, as they received goods such as guns, textiles, and alcohol in exchange for slaves. The trade of slaves for goods not only enriched these rulers but also strengthened their political power and military capabilities.

The Kingdom of Dahomey, for instance, was notorious for its involvement in the slave trade. The Dahomean rulers organised regular military campaigns, known as 'slave raids', to capture individuals from neighbouring regions. These captives were then sold to European traders. The rulers of Dahomey became incredibly wealthy and powerful as a result of this trade, using their newfound wealth to expand their territories and strengthen their armies.

Similarly, the Kingdom of Kongo in Central Africa was deeply involved in the slave trade. Initially, the Kongo rulers traded with the Portuguese, providing slaves in exchange for European goods. However, as the demand for slaves increased, the Kongo rulers began to wage wars against neighbouring states to capture more individuals for the slave trade. This led to a significant increase in the power and wealth of the Kongo rulers.

However, it is important to note that not all African rulers were involved in the slave trade. Some, like King Afonso I of Kongo, actively resisted the trade. Afonso I wrote letters to the Portuguese king, pleading for an end to the trade due to the devastating effects it was having on his people. Despite this, the trade continued, driven by the demand from European traders and the willingness of other African rulers to supply slaves.

In conclusion, African rulers played a crucial role in the Atlantic Slave Trade. They were often the ones who captured and sold their own people into slavery, enriching themselves and strengthening their power in the process. However, the involvement of African rulers in the slave trade was not universal, with some actively resisting the trade.