USA HISTORY

LIFE IN ANTEBELLUM AMERICA 1807 1861

SLAVERY IN AMERICA COTTON SLAVE TRADE AND THE SOUTHERN RESPONSE

Question [CLICK ON ANY CHOICE TO KNOW THE RIGHT ANSWER]
Which statement is true regarding African culture in Colonial America?
A
Africans no longer cared for their old cultures
B
Africans practiced their cultures ad traditions
C
Africans were punished for singing African songs
D
Africans were forced to practice only colonial traditions
Explanation: 

Detailed explanation-1: -Brought to America in captivity and sold into slavery, Africans carried their culture with them as best they could. Music and dance-an integral part of African life-became an important part of life for blacks in America. Both slaves and free blacks used music as an accompaniment to work, worship, and celebration.

Detailed explanation-2: -Music was a way for slaves to express their feelings whether it was sorrow, joy, inspiration or hope. Songs were passed down from generation to generation throughout slavery. These songs were influenced by African and religious traditions and would later form the basis for what is known as “Negro Spirituals”.

Detailed explanation-3: -Jazz music, blues music, and gospel music all grew from African roots. Spirituals, work calls, and chants coupled with makeshift instruments morphed into blues rhythms and ragtime. Ragtime paved the way for jazz, and elements from all these styles influenced rock and roll and hip hop music.

Detailed explanation-4: -Role of Music: African music is a vital part of everyday life in Africa. It is a part of religious ceremonies, festivals, and social rituals. Songs are used for the important events in a person’s life (birth, coming of age, marriage, and death). They are used for curing the sick, bringing rain, and religious dances.

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