Staff Reports
In today’s political landscape, absurdity is becoming the norm. Recently, a figure in the public eye made some outrageous comments that would make any reasonable person raise an eyebrow. She suggested that the history of slavery in America could be scrubbed clean, thanks to institutions like the Smithsonian. This notion that history can be rewritten to fit a narrative is not just laughable; it is outright dangerous.
First, it is essential to recognize that slavery has existed in various forms across the globe for thousands of years. To claim that white people single-handedly created slavery is a gross simplification. Many societies, including those in ancient Egypt, practiced slavery long before the United States was even a concept. The idea that only one race is to blame for such a horrific institution flies in the face of historical facts. During the Civil War, many white Americans fought to end slavery as part of the Union army, but this oversimplifies the broader historical context. The Emancipation Proclamation was a military strategy, and the abolition movement included significant efforts by Black activists. Enslaved people themselves also fought for their freedom through resistance, escapes, and later serving in Union forces.
Contrary to what some may want to believe, the history of race relations in this country is nuanced. The claim that a mere 2% of white Americans owned slaves can be misleading without the context that the percentage was significantly higher in Southern states where slavery was concentrated. Even those who did not own slaves often benefited from or supported the system. Harriet Tubman, a remarkable figure in American history, is frequently noted for her exceptional work in operating through the Underground Railroad, frequently through Black communities. While she did collaborate with some white abolitionists, she primarily trusted Black networks for safety reasons. The narrative is far more complex than what radical leftists claim.
The Smithsonian, often cited in these discussions, is not the ultimate authority on historical truth, but it is an institution that actively engages in researching and presenting the complex history of slavery. Instead of trying to erase the past or bend it to fit a particular ideology, we should focus on telling the full story, including the contributions and responsibilities of all groups involved in historical events. This includes acknowledging figures like Anthony Johnson, an African who arrived as an indentured servant and later gained his freedom, participating in an early case of lifelong servitude. However, declaring him as “the first legal slave owner in America” oversimplifies the gradual development of slavery laws.
American society thrives on the free exchange of ideas and a clear understanding of the past. Rather than rewriting history to suit today’s political whims, we need to engage with it honestly. This means embracing the good, the bad, and everything in between. Only by acknowledging the multifaceted nature of history can we hope to understand where we’ve been and where we need to go as a nation. It’s time to drop the divisive rhetoric and start embracing a true, comprehensive narrative that reflects the complexities of our shared history.
