Question

Why did American slave owners ban drums?

a) To discourage communication among slaves
b) To promote cultural assimilation
c) To prevent social gatherings
d) To suppress religious practices

Answer 1

American slave owners banned drums to prevent communication among slaves, fearing it could lead to organized resistance. Enslaved Africans found alternative ways to maintain their cultural practices, like 'patting juba'. Despite attempts to control religious gatherings, African Americans preserved their heritage and sense of community through music.

Step-by-step explanation:

American slave owners banned drums primarily to discourage communication among slaves. Drums were a vital part of African culture and served as a means for enslaved Africans to connect with each other, retain aspects of their heritage, and even transmit messages. Following incidents like the Stono Rebellion of 1739, where enslaved Africans armed themselves and marched for freedom while playing drums to attract more participants, slave owners recognized drums' potential to facilitate organized resistance. Consequently, laws were enacted to suppress any form of communication that could lead to revolts or uprisings, thereby inhibiting the slaves' ability to plan and execute coordinated acts of rebellion, strengthening the overall control over the enslaved population.

Communication among slaves wasn't limited to just drums. Alternatives like 'patting juba'—a form of percussion involving foot tapping, hand clapping, and thigh-slapping—demonstrated the resilience of African Americans in maintaining their cultural practices despite oppressive restrictions. This rhythmic expression was akin to the drum rhythms from their African roots, showcasing continuity and resistance through music and dance, which eventually influenced American music and dance forms.

Additionally, slave owners attempted to use religion as another means of control, but recognizing the potential of worship and gatherings for reinforcing a sense of unity and resistance, they placed strict limitations on these activities as well. Ultimately, these suppressive measures did not succeed in extinguishing the spirit of resistance and community among enslaved African Americans, which continued to manifest in both their secular and religious music, contributing to the creation of a distinctive African-American culture.