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Europeans had witnessed the African blacksmiths’ art from west and west-central Africa, with pieces from as far back as the early fifteenth century.
Year: 18th and 19th century
Who: Enslaved African Blacksmiths
Where: Chesapeake and New Orleans
What: During the 18th and 19th centuries, enslaved African blacksmiths played a pivotal role in shaping the metalwork industry in regions such as Chesapeake and New Orleans. Europeans, having been exposed to the intricate artistry of African blacksmiths from West and West-Central Africa as early as the fifteenth century, recognized the exceptional skill of these craftsmen. This led to the enslavement of many African artisans who were forced to work in the colonies, particularly in the burgeoning ironworks industry.
In the Chesapeake region and New Orleans, enslaved blacksmiths like Abraham and Bill were instrumental in the operation of large iron furnaces during the 1760s. These highly skilled ironworkers not only contributed to the economic foundations of these regions but also infused their cultural heritage into their work. Symbols and motifs from their African origins were subtly integrated into the metalwork they produced, serving as enduring representations of their identity and resilience amidst the harsh conditions of enslavement.
The legacy of these blacksmiths extends beyond their technical contributions; it reflects a profound narrative of cultural preservation and resistance. Despite the oppressive circumstances, these artisans maintained a connection to their roots, leaving behind a legacy that continues to be recognized and celebrated today.
Sources:
Books:
Ira Berlin. (1998). Many Thousands Gone: The First Two Centuries of Slavery in North America. Harvard University Press.
This book discusses the role of enslaved Africans in various industries, including blacksmithing, in different regions of North America.
Mechal Sobel. (1987). The World They Made Together: Black and White Values in Eighteenth-Century Virginia. Princeton University Press.
This book explores the cultural and economic contributions of enslaved Africans in Virginia, with specific references to skilled trades such as blacksmithing.
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