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The Impact of Slavery on American Society

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The Impact of Slavery on American Society

DeVry University

Abstract

The subject of slavery has been the focus of a variety of controversies, debates, and protests throughout American history. Besides the Civil War era there has not been another time in history when slavery has been such a volatile topic as it has become in the last half decade. Even in modern day America the subject of slavery evokes significant discussions and has influenced legislative decisions such as the recent removal of the Confederate flag from South Carolina’s State House grounds and other government and public locations throughout the South. This paper seeks to review the literature attaching the history of slavery and present examples of the ethnic and cultural contributions that aided in the growth and diversity of America. It will also introduce examples of today’s societal issues including educational, economic, and social variances; the right to support cultural heritage; and the significant role history plays in influencing decisions made in America today.
Introduction
American history is filled with heinous acts that many would like to forget happened; slavery is no exception. Although it was a necessity of the times, slavery is undoubtedly one of the most volatile topics of discussion today; not just because of the inhuman and discriminatory treatment that was inflicted on an entire race, but also because of the perceived continued existence of some of those same behaviors today. In spite of the fact that slavery ended in the late 19th century as a result of the actions of the Abolition Movement, the westward expansion of the colonies, and the North’s triumph over the South during the Civil War; the struggle for African Americans was far from over. In reality “the intense engagement over the issue of slavery signals … a crisis in American race

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