2011 - question 5
a) List TWO examples EACH of insurrectionary and non-insurrectionary
forms of resistance, other than running away (4 marks)
Two examples of insurrectionary forms of resistance are: 1. Revolts 2. Setting fire to
cane fields.
Two examples of non-insurrectionary forms for resistance are: 1. Slow working and
malingering 2. Poisoning slave owners
b) Explain THREE reasons why enslaved Africans ran away from the
Caribbean sugar plantations. (9 marks)
Enslaved Africans ran away from Caribbean sugar plantations primarily due to the
inhumane and brutal working conditions they were subjected to. The sugar production
process was labour-intensive and required working from dawn till dusk under the sun.
The physical toll on the enslaved individuals was immense, often leading to severe
injuries or death. Furthermore, the punishment for not meeting the standards of work
or for any perceived disobedience was excessively harsh, including whipping,
mutilation, and even execution. This constant physical abuse and the threat of severe
punishment created a living nightmare for the enslaved, making the risky choice to run
away a preferable alternative to the daily horrors they faced on the plantations.
The consistent deprivation away of freedom and cultural identity also drove enslaved
Africans to flee. Upon arrival in the Caribbean, individuals were forcibly separated
from their families and mixed with others from different ethnic groups. This deliberate
tactic hindered communication and made organised rebellion more difficult, further
isolating individuals in their troubles. The loss of independence, the severance of
familial ties, and the lack of cultural heritage inflicted deep psychological wounds.
Running away was thus not only an escape from physical bondage but also an act of
reclaiming one's identity and seeking a community where lost cultural and familial
bonds could be reestablished or formed anew.
Lastly, the fundamental human desire for freedom and independence was a powerful
motivator behind the escape attempts. Despite the risk of recapture and the consequent
brutal punishments that awaited runaways, the desire for a life of dignity, where one
could make personal decisions and live free from enslavement, drove many to take
their chances. Some sought refuge in maroon communities, where runaway slaves
established their own societies, living independently and resisting re-enslavement.
c) Examine THREE ways in which the sugar plantations were affected when
the enslaved Africans ran away.( 12 marks)
The act of running away by enslaved persons significantly impacted both the planter
and the overall productivity of the plantation in multiple ways. One of the primary
effects was the loss of labour, which was important for the daily work and the
economic stability of the plantation. This loss forced the planters to spend additional
money to replace those who had escaped. Finding, purchasing, and integrating new
enslaved individuals into the plantation workforce involved more expense and time,
directly affecting the plantation's productivity and profitability.
Additionally, the act of running away served as a powerful form of encouragement to
those still enslaved on the plantations. Each successful escape acted as an affirmation
that freedom was attainable and challenged the belief of the planters' total control.
This led to an increase in confidence among the remaining enslaved population,
potentially inspiring more attempts to escape and further disrupting plantation
operations. This knowledge had led to them resisting their bondage and seeking
freedom.
Also, theft was often a component of these escape attempts. Many of the enslaved
individuals took the planter’s animals, crops, and even equipment as they escaped.
This caused an immediate financial loss and contributed to inefficient operations, as
the plantation would have to replace these resources or suffer a reduction in
productivity. The theft of such items not only facilitated the survival of the escapees
but also added another layer of economic strain on the plantation, worsening the
difficulties faced by the planters in maintaining their operations and profitability.
2016 - question 5
a) List FOUR geographical features which facilitated the development of the
maroon communities in the Caribbean. ( 4 marks)
Four geographical features are: 1. Forests 2. Caves 3. Karst limestone features 4.
Cockpits
b) Describe THREE features of the origins and growth of maroon
communities in Jamaica. (9 marks)
The origins and growth of Maroon communities in Jamaica can be significantly
attributed to the effective leadership provided by figures such as Cudjoe and Nanny.
These leaders were pivotal in organising the Maroon societies, using their strategic
insight and personality to unite their followers. Their ability to lead, plan, and execute
strategies against the British, including negotiating treaties, was important. Leadership
ensured the Maroons were well organised and could effectively manage their
resources, defend their settlements, and plan raids for supplies, which were essential
for their survival and growth.
Another key feature was the advantageous topography of Jamaica, characterised by
dense forests, caves, mountains, and other natural barriers that provided the Maroons
with strategic defence advantages. These natural features made it harder for British
forces to attack Maroon settlements, allowing these communities to succeed. The
landscape not only offered protection but also supported their way of life, enabling
them to cultivate land and sustain themselves. This connection to the land was integral
to their survival, providing both a physical and a psychological stronghold.
Lastly, the Maroon communities' knowledge in tracking, skilled marksmanship, and
their self-sufficiency were very important for their development. Skills brought from
Africa and adapted to the new environment allowed them to become expert hunters
and farmers. Their diet was supplemented by wild cattle and pigs, and their
agricultural practices ensured a steady supply of provisions. The replenishment of
their numbers with other runaway slaves kept the communities strong. Also, their
innovative use of the cow horns called abengs for communication enabled them to
send code messages across distances, coordinating their activities, and enhancing their
security. This enhanced signalling system, along with their ability to conduct raids on
plantations for extra supplies, boosted their strength and innovation in sustaining their
societies.
c) Examine THREE strategies used by maroon communities to overcome the
obstacles to their development. (12 marks)
The Maroons were skilled negotiators, which played a main role in their
survival and independence. By engaging in peace talks with the British, they
managed to secure treaties that recognized their independence in exchange for
not helping runaway slaves. This negotiation significantly reduced the threat of
attack, allowing the Maroon communities to focus on strengthening and
expanding their settlements without the constant fear.
Building their communities in hidden places was another key strategy the
Maroons used to safeguard their independence. They chose rough terrains such
as high mountains and dense forests for their settlements, which naturally
protected them from potential attackers. These difficult access routes and
natural defence made it almost impossible for attackers to launch successful
assaults. This strategic choice of location not only protected them from
unwanted intrusions but also created a secure environment for their societies to
grow, away from the reach of enslavers. .
Lastly, the Maroons' use of stealth and surveillance techniques significantly
enhanced their ability to maintain security and independence. They developed a
complicated network of lookouts and secret paths within the dense forests of
their territories, allowing them to move secretly and keep constant watch for
any threats. This system of vigilance enabled them to prevent dangers and also
effectively minimise the risk of surprise attacks. Through these methods, the
Maroons ensured the continued existence and growth of their communities by
skillfully managing their security and sustaining their freedom.