What role did fear play in the environment of slave ships?

Fear played a critical role in shaping the environment on slave ships, serving as a tactic employed by the crew to maintain control over the enslaved individuals. The crew often instilled fear through violent practices, harsh punishments, and intimidation. This created an atmosphere where enslaved people were less likely to challenge their captors or resist, as the consequences for defiance could be brutal.

By fostering an environment of fear, the crew aimed to minimize uprisings and maintain order during the harrowing transatlantic journey. The oppressive conditions and psychological stress inflicted on the enslaved served to reinforce the crew's authority and keep the enslaved individuals subdued, making it easier for them to carry out their profit-driven objectives without interference. Thus, fear was an effective means of control that significantly impacted the dynamics aboard slave ships.