Primary Source Analysis- Slaves

Primary Source Analysis

Slavery

While I was reading from the source National Humanities Center, I became confused when I read a section about the sexual assault on women and men that were slaves. Many questions came into my head. Why were these people that were considered "lesser" what the white men used? Why wouldn't their wives subdue? Did the wives know? When all of these questions came into my head the one that stood out to me was why they would have sexual relationships with what they believed to be the "lesser" race. I looked up an article and found what seemed to be a solid answer to my question. The article talked about how the white ladies in a community were known for their untarnished self. They were pure, and had a respect for themselves where sex was not a very common thing. But, when the colored women came in there was a perception of uncleanliness that ended up becoming a sexual imagination for white men. And then I realized there was a much deeper aspect then just rape and sexual misconduct. Ladies needed proper treatment and food for their children and themselves, and would use their gender and sexuality to their benefit. Although a horrible situation, this was very thought through and probably saved many lives. 

I still have to wonder if the wives knew about these affairs? Or if these affairs ever left in death or jail? I have found out a lot more about why there is so much sexual misconduct in the years as a slave, and I am excited to hopefully learn more.