Slavery and the slave trade in Africa

The author surveys the history and mechanisms of slavery and the slave trade in Africa, tracing how coastal exploration and external demand fostered capture, transport, and commodification of African peoples. He documents the violence, social disruption, and economic distortion caused by raiding, markets, and forced expatriation, and highlights contradictions between missionary presence and commercial enslavement. The account reviews international suppression efforts, including naval patrols, exploration, and initiatives to promote legitimate trade, and assesses the measures proposed and progress made toward eventual abolition and social and economic recovery.