The Dark Reality of Slave Ownership During the American Civil War

During the period before and after the American Civil War, it is a common misconception that not all slave owners in the South treated their slaves cruelly. This article explores the harsh truths behind slave ownership, using historical examples to illustrate the inhumane nature of this evil system.

Slavery and Kindness: A Paradox

One significant example is George Washington’s chef, who was known as "Moses" and treated as a rock star due to his skill and fame. Despite this, he ultimately ran away, indicating that the quality of treatment was not his primary issue. The core problem lies in the fact that these individuals were ‘kindly’ treated within an evil system. The system allowed slavery to exist, which means that slave owners, regardless of their intentions, were inherently partakers in cruelty and mistreatment.

Evil System, Cruel Inevitability

If an owner fell into debt, creditors could demand the confiscation or renting out of slaves. This illustrates the powerlessness of slaves within the system. Another example is Robert E Lee’s father-in-law, who was considered a more lenient owner, promising to free his slaves upon his death. However, when he passed away, Lee, as the tutor, refused to honor this promise. This resulted in the mistreatment of these formerly promised freed slaves, including their severe beating and family separation.

The Myth of ‘Mean’ Slave Owners

The notion that some slave owners were kind and did not mistreat their slaves is misplaced. No one can hold another person in slavery without engaging in mistreatment; owning a slave, by definition, is mistreatment. Slaves had no rights and were treated as property, such as a table or a book. Their awareness of the constant threat of mistreatment at the whim of their owners was a daily reality.

Historical Truths and Inevitability

Even if a slave owner was the most wonderful master, they were still engaging in cruel and mistreatment by owning another human being. The underlying evil of slavery is intrinsically linked to the dehumanization and mistreatment of those held in bondage. The only valid justification for owning or buying a slave is if the intention is to free them from slavery. Any other justification is inherently cruel and inhumane.

Conclusion

It is disheartening to acknowledge the harsh realities of slave ownership during the American Civil War. Whether a slave owner was benevolent or not, their actions were inherently cruel and inhumane. Understanding and acknowledging these truths helps to shed light on the complexities and moral challenges of this period in history.