Close-Up On A Slave Trader
By Eliza

If you saw Mr. Benjamin Johnson as you were walking to church on Sunday morning you would think he was as normal as you or I. But, if you took the time to talk to him as this reporter did, you would find out that he was a very interesting man.

He is a slave trader and has seen more horror in one week than any man should have to witness in his entire life. On the slave ships it doesn’t matter your age, you are treated like a wild animal. "It’s wrong to do this and I know that. But, my family needs to eat."

Even if the slave trade is controversial, it’s still a way of living. We use the slaves in the triangular trade. Then we get molasses which helps us to make rum. Rum is definitely not a natural necessity but, I know my husband isn’t in a good mood unless he has a cup of rum for the day. So, if you are against slave trading you should not be allowed to have molasses or rum at all. Triangular trade forever!

Did you ever wonder how molasses is made? Here’s how you do it:

  1. Get sugar cane from the West Indies.

  2. Take the cane and strip the leaves.

  3. Leave the bare stalk standing for 3 to 4 days.

  4. Collect brown seeds for the next season.

  5. Feed stripped cane to the grinder to make a pale green liquid.

  6. Strain twice to remove anything that shouldn’t be there.

  7. Store in a barrel until ready.

  8. Boil until becomes golden-brown.

By: Kassie

 

Revolution | Pocantico Hills School