18th, 19th centuries (Temporal Keyword)

DOCUMENT Citation Only Patricia M. Samford.

The world of enslaved African Americans included not only the solid ground beneath their feet and other physical landmarks, but also the sky above them, replete with planets and stars.  In a world without maps, compasses or, in many instances, the ability to read directions, the enslaved were dependent upon visual cues for making their way through the landscape.  Oral traditions and historical documents reveal that planets and constellations were important guides for finding one’s way,...