Final answer:
The 'band of angels' in the spiritual 'Swing Low, Sweet Chariot' likely represents the individuals of the Underground Railroad assisting slaves in their journey to freedom. This term functioned as a coded reference to the network of people, both black and white, who were dedicated to helping slaves escape.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the context of the African American spiritual Swing Low, Sweet Chariot, the "band of angels comin' after me" most likely represents the people working in the Underground Railroad to help slaves to freedom. Spirituals often contained coded messages and allegories as a means of covert communication among enslaved people. The Underground Railroad was an organized network of secret routes and safe houses that assisted African American slaves in escaping to free states and Canada.
The metaphor of angels could be understood as the caring individuals, including both blacks and whites, who risked their lives to guide slaves to liberty. Thus, the term 'band of angels' functioned as a hopeful reference to those conductors and abolitionists who labored for the freedom of others, much like celestial beings guiding souls to the afterlife.
These spirituals, deeply rooted in the Christian narrative and influenced by West African musical traditions, provided solace and hope, while also assisting with the logistical aspects of escape.