Question

It is now thought that at least 20 percent of the enslaved Africans transported by way of the Middle Passage died during the voyage. What conclusion can be drawn from this?
A.
There was no way to prevent illness among the enslaved Africans on such a long voyage.
B.
The enslaved Africans refused to care for themselves during the voyage.
C.
The enslaved Africans were badly mistreated by the slavers during the voyage.
D.
There was no way to keep all the enslaved Africans fed on such a long voyage.

Answer 1

C. The enslaved Africans were badly mistreated by the slavers during the voyage.

A 20% mortality rate on the Middle Passage reflects overcrowding, poor sanitation, insufficient food and water, disease, and violent abuse — all evidence of severe mistreatment rather than an unavoidable natural outcome or refusal to care for themselves.