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Colonial Slave Resistance — Reading Comprehension

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D2.HIS.2.3-5
D2.HIS.3.3-5
RI.4.3
RI.4.4
W.4.2

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This U.S. History reading passage explores the complex topic of slave resistance in colonial America, examining the many ways enslaved individuals resisted their forced labor and asserted their humanity. The text covers forms of resistance such as work slowdowns, sabotage, escape, and organized rebellions like the Stono Uprising, while highlighting the risks and consequences faced by those who resisted. Students will learn about the historical context and significance of these acts, using critical thinking and historical evidence. The passage is aligned with HSS 5.4.5 and 8.7, as well as CCSS.RI.6-8.1 and RI.6-8.3. Included are a glossary, timeline, multiple-choice questions, writing prompts, graphic organizers, a read-aloud audio option, and Spanish translations, as well as a simplified version for differentiated instruction.

CONTENT PREVIEW

enslaved people planning rebellion by moonlight in colonial America. — A powerful acrylic scene of resistance and hope.

Enslaved people in colonial America did not submit to their situation without protest. Across the colonies, resistance took many forms, from subtle acts of defiance to violent rebellion. Despite harsh punishments and constant surveillance, enslaved Africans and their descendants repeatedly challenged the system that tried to control every part of their lives.

One common method of resistance was slowing down the pace of work. Enslaved workers might pretend to be sick, break tools, or work less efficiently. These actions, sometimes called "day-to-day resistance," forced slaveholders to recognize that enslaved people were not simply property, but individuals who could disrupt the plantation economy. While these acts rarely brought freedom, they allowed enslaved people to regain a sense of agency and dignity in their daily lives.

Escape was another significant form of resistance. Some enslaved people risked everything by running away, seeking refuge with Native American communities or in free colonies. The journey was dangerous and punishments for being caught were severe, ranging from brutal physical penalties to being sold farther from family and friends. Despite these risks, many attempted escape, demonstrating the powerful desire for freedom and autonomy.

Organized uprisings, although less common, had a major impact on colonial society. One of the most famous was the Stono Rebellion of 1739 in South Carolina. A group of about twenty enslaved men seized weapons and killed several white colonists, hoping to reach Spanish Florida where they had been promised freedom. The rebellion grew as more enslaved people joined, but it was eventually suppressed. In response, colonial authorities passed stricter laws known as the Slave Codes to limit the movement and activities of enslaved people.

The effects of resistance extended beyond the immediate events. Plantation owners lived in fear of further uprisings and were forced to spend resources on security and control. At the same time, acts of resistance inspired hope among enslaved communities and proved that the system of slavery could be challenged.

Historians use records such as court documents, plantation accounts, and personal narratives to piece together these stories. While not every act of resistance was recorded, the evidence shows that enslaved people never accepted their fate quietly. Their courage and determination changed colonial laws and helped sow the seeds for future movements seeking justice and equality.

Interesting Fact: During the Stono Rebellion, some rebels used drums and music to communicate and organize, drawing upon African traditions of resistance.

What year was the Stono Rebellion?

1739162017811492

What were Slave Codes?

Strict laws controlling enslaved peopleSecret escape routesPlantation toolsTypes of crops

Where did Stono rebels hope to go?

Spanish FloridaNew EnglandEnglandCanada

Why did enslaved people break tools?

To slow plantation workTo get new toolsFor funTo help owners

What effect did resistance have on owners?

Owners feared more uprisingsOwners freed all enslaved peopleOwners ignored resistanceOwners stopped working

What did historians use to study resistance?

Court documents and recordsModern filmsInternet videosNewspapers only