The History of Slave Trade in Cross River

THE HISTORY Of SLAVE TRADE IN CROSS RIVER AND AKWAIBOM STATE 

The history of the slave trade in Cross River State and Akwa Ibom State, located in southeastern Nigeria, is a complex narrative intertwined with local cultures, colonial interests, and international commerce. Here’s a detailed overview:

Early History and Background

1. Pre-Colonial Period: Before the arrival of Europeans, the Efik and Ibibio ethnic groups, predominant in Cross River and Akwa Ibom states, had established societies with their own social and political structures. These societies engaged in trade, agriculture, and craftsmanship. The region was known for its palm oil production, which would later become significant in the transatlantic trade.

2. Emergence of Slave Trade: The transatlantic slave trade began in the late 15th century, spurred by European demand for labor in the Americas. The Portuguese were among the first Europeans to engage in the slave trade, followed by the British, Dutch, and French. The coastal areas of present-day Nigeria became central to this trade as European traders sought to acquire enslaved people for their colonies.

Development of the Slave Trade

3. Establishment of Trade Networks: In the 17th and 18th centuries, trade networks expanded, with European traders establishing relationships with local leaders and merchants. In Cross River and Akwa Ibom, coastal towns like Calabar (in Cross River State) emerged as major trading hubs. Local chiefs often played pivotal roles, capturing people from neighboring areas and selling them to European traders.

4. Types of Slavery: There were various forms of slavery practiced. While some enslaved people were captured in wars, others were sold by their families due to debt or famine. The trade was facilitated by the local elites, who received goods such as guns, textiles, and alcohol in exchange for enslaved individuals.

5. Slave Ports: Calabar became one of the most significant slave ports in West Africa. It was where many enslaved individuals were held in dungeons before being shipped to the Americas. The infamous "Bight of Biafra" was a major region for slave exports, with Calabar as a key port of embarkation.

The Impact of Slave Trade

6. Social Disruption: The slave trade caused significant social upheaval. Families were torn apart, communities disrupted, and traditional political structures destabilized as local leaders engaged in the trade. The constant demand for enslaved individuals led to increased warfare and raiding among communities.

7. Economic Transformation: The slave trade greatly influenced the local economy. While it brought wealth to some local elites, it also created a reliance on the trade of human lives, leading to long-term economic ramifications. The palm oil trade began to flourish as it became a substitute for human labor in the local economy, especially after the abolition of slavery.

Abolition of the Slave Trade

8. Abolition Movement: The abolition of the transatlantic slave trade was influenced by various factors, including humanitarian concerns, economic changes, and resistance from enslaved individuals themselves. The British Parliament officially abolished the slave trade in 1807, although illegal trading continued for decades afterward.

9. Impact of Abolition: After abolition, the local economy faced challenges. Many who had depended on the slave trade for their wealth had to find new means of livelihood. The palm oil trade continued to grow, eventually replacing the slave trade as the region's primary economic activity.

10. Colonial Rule: The British established colonial rule in Nigeria in the late 19th century, leading to the establishment of new administrative systems. The abolition of slavery and the establishment of colonial governance led to changes in local societies, economies, and trade practices.

Post-Abolition Developments

11. Legacy: The legacy of the slave trade in Cross River and Akwa Ibom states remains evident today in social structures, economic practices, and cultural identities. The history of slavery has shaped local narratives and continues to influence contemporary discussions about identity and heritage.

Conclusion

The slave trade in Cross River and Akwa Ibom states was marked by complex interactions between local societies and European traders. While it brought wealth to some, it also inflicted deep social wounds that resonate in contemporary society. Understanding this history is crucial for grasping the socio-economic dynamics of the region today.