“WE SEEK TO GRANT FREEDOM TO SLAVES, AND NOT TO ENSLAVE FREE MEN”: DEBATES OVER THE END OF THE SLAVE TRADE AND ABOLITION IN THE 19TH-CENTURY ANGOLAN PRESS

Abstract

This paper discusses the dynamics and effects of the historical process concerning the end of the slave trade and abolition in Angola, as reflected in 19th-century printed materials (official) and emerging press (journals). With the advent of the free press, significant changes took place in Angolan public debate. The 20-year-long process of abolition aimed to protect agricultural enterprises and avoid compensation to slaveholders. The permanence of slave labor provoked vigorous debates in the press. This study analyzes primary printed sources: reports from the general governors of the province, Boletim do Governo Geral da Província de Angola, A Civilisação da África Portuguesa, O Mercantil, O Cruzeiro do Sul, Jornal de Loanda, A União da África-Portuguesa, O Pharol do Povo and O Desastre.

Keywords:
Press; Slavery; Slave labor