A versatile island: The role of São Tomé in the slave trade during the period of WIC occupation, 1641-1649

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapterScientificpeer-review

Abstract

Despite their acknowledgement of São Tomé’s position as the principal market for Dutch slaves in 1646–1648, historians have largely neglected to investigate the nature of the slave trade with and via this island during the period of occupation by the Dutch West India Company (WIC), 1641–1649. Likewise, they have failed to address the importance of São Tomé for the activities of Dutch, foreign, and interloper slavers and how this island was incorporated into the already existing slave trade networks of the WIC. This article attempts to f ill this historiographical void by examining São Tomé’s involvement in the slave trade during the period of WIC occupation. By using a large variety of primary sources, we can paint a picture of a versatile island that not only functioned as an entrepôt for the re-export of slaves and a market for the sale of captives, but also as a victualling station for passing slavers and a haven for foreign crews and local merchants alike
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationThe Dutch transatlantic slave trade
Subtitle of host publicationNew methods, perspectives and sources
EditorsRamona Négron, Jessica den Oudsten, Camilla de Koning, Karwan Fatah-Black
Place of PublicationAmsterdam
PublisherAmsterdam University Press
Chapter1
Pages21-43
Number of pages23
ISBN (Electronic)9789048560509
ISBN (Print)9789048560493
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 6 Jan 2025

Publication series

NameSlavery and Emancipation
PublisherAmsterdam University Press
Volume1

Keywords

  • Slavery
  • Slave Trade
  • São Tomé
  • Dutch West India Company
  • Entrepôt

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