Rough Crossings - Simon Schama

Rough Crossings: Britain, the Slaves, and the American Revolution

In his groundbreaking book, Rough Crossings, Simon Schama tells the story of the transatlantic slave trade and its profound impact on the American Revolution. Schama argues that the American Revolution was not simply a fight for independence from Britain, but also a struggle over the future of slavery.

The Transatlantic Slave Trade

The transatlantic slave trade was one of the most brutal and dehumanizing enterprises in human history. Millions of Africans were forcibly taken from their homes and transported to the Americas, where they were sold as slaves. The conditions on the slave ships were horrific, and many Africans died during the Middle Passage.

The American Revolution

The American Revolution began in 1775, when the thirteen American colonies declared their independence from Britain. The war was fought over a number of issues, including taxation, representation, and the future of slavery.

Slavery and the American Revolution

Schama argues that the American Revolution was not simply a fight for independence from Britain, but also a struggle over the future of slavery. The British promised freedom to slaves who fought for them, and many African Americans joined the British cause. However, the American victory in the war meant that slavery continued in the United States for another 89 years.

The Legacy of Slavery

The legacy of slavery continues to shape American society today. The United States is still grappling with the racial inequality that was created by slavery, and the descendants of slaves continue to face discrimination and poverty.

Rough Crossings is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand the history of the United States. Schama's powerful and moving account of the transatlantic slave trade and its impact on the American Revolution is a reminder of the dark side of American history. But it is also a story of hope, as it shows how African Americans fought for their freedom and helped to shape the course of American history.

Praise for Rough Crossings

"A magisterial work of history that is both deeply moving and intellectually provocative." - The New York Times

"Schama has written a brilliant and important book that will change the way we think about the American Revolution." - The Washington Post

"A powerful and unforgettable account of one of the most important chapters in American history." - The Boston Globe

Order Your Copy of Rough Crossings Today!

Rough Crossings is available in hardcover, paperback, and audiobook. Order your copy today and learn the true story of the American Revolution.