African American Life in Colonial Williamsburg

Almost half of the inhabitants in Colonial Williamsburg were African American. Therefore, it only makes sense that those who want to visit the historical sites and attractions are also introduced to the colonial African American experience.

In the eighteenth-century, slavery existed in every colony. As such, at least 20 percent of the people within those first thirteen colonies were African American, although not all of them were slaves. Still, whether they were free or enslaved, a look at African American life in Colonial Williamsburg is a unique look at a culture, history, and heritage of a group of people that was as important for the economical growth of the society as any other group in the area. During the times of Colonial Williamsburg, slaves tended to a number of different jobs and positions, including those in the areas of farming tobacco, crops, and livestock. There were no aspects of 18th-century Williamsburg unaffected by slavery.

Still, it is important that those who study Colonial Williamsburg are given a fair and accurate glimpse at the past, including those traditions which were unfair or unkind to certain people. By letting them see specific examples, each child can be educated about the history of America and how it affects our country today.

Colonial Williamsburg is a wonderful place that offers an accurate representation of the times, including the portrayal of the diverse members of society and how their interactions affected one another. From slaves to tradesmen to the affluent members of society, historical interpreters do their best to show visitors exactly how the colony worked and survived during the early American years.