2. American slavery was based on race. In most other slave societies, enslaved people were primarily from the same ethnic group as their enslavers. In the United States, however, enslaved people were almost exclusively of African descent. This made American slavery a system of racial oppression.
3. American slavery was extremely brutal. Enslaved people in the United States were subjected to horrific conditions. They were often beaten, whipped, and tortured. They were denied basic necessities, such as food, clothing, and shelter. They were also denied the right to education, to own property, or to testify in court.
4. American slavery was defended by the law. The United States Constitution enshrined slavery as a legal institution. The Fugitive Slave Act of 1850 required all citizens to assist in the capture of escaped enslaved people. The Dred Scott decision of 1857 ruled that enslaved people were not citizens and could not sue for their freedom.
5. American slavery was fought over in a civil war. The American Civil War was fought over the issue of slavery. The Union, which was opposed to slavery, won the war and ended slavery in the United States.
The American Civil War had a profound impact on the United States. It ended slavery and led to the abolition of segregation laws. It also led to the passage of the 14th and 15th Amendments to the U.S. Constitution, which guaranteed equal protection under the law and the right to vote for all citizens, regardless of race.
The American Civil War was a bloody and costly conflict, but it ultimately resulted in the abolition of slavery and the advancement of civil rights in the United States.