1. As Property: Many slaveholders viewed slaves as their personal property, a commodity to be bought, sold, and traded for economic gain. This view was prevalent among the plantation elite and those with significant economic interests in slavery.
2. As Subordinate Beings: Plantation culture enforced a rigid social hierarchy, with whites at the top and slaves at the bottom. Slaves were seen as inherently inferior, both intellectually and morally, reinforcing a sense of white superiority.
3. As Labor Force: Slaves were primarily valued for their labor, serving as a critical workforce for agricultural plantations and other industries in the South. The commodification of labor led to exploitative practices and harsh treatment.
4. As Possessions: For some slave owners, slaves were viewed as personal possessions, to be cared for and controlled with varying levels of paternalism. This mindset gave masters a sense of ownership and entitlement over the lives and well-being of enslaved individuals.
5. As Objects of Fear: Some slave owners harbored fears of slave uprisings and potential retaliation, as reflected in the implementation of oppressive slave codes and strict control measures. These fears further shaped the way Southerners perceived slaves.
6. As Dehumanized Beings: Deprived of basic human rights, dignity, and legal recognition, slaves were often dehumanized and denied their full personhood. This dehumanization facilitated their mistreatment and oppression.
7. Variations in Views: Not all Southerners shared the same views toward slaves. Some, like abolitionists, opposed the institution of slavery for moral or religious reasons. Others, especially among poorer whites, held ambivalent attitudes, sometimes competing with slaves for jobs and resources.
8. Changing Perspectives: Over time, the views of Southerners towards slavery evolved, influenced by factors like the rise of the abolitionist movement, religious revivals, and the Civil War. There was gradual progress in understanding the humanity and rights of enslaved individuals.
It's important to note that not all Southerners held the same views, and there was a range of attitudes and treatment towards slaves within the antebellum South. These perspectives were largely influenced by social, economic, and cultural norms that upheld the institution of slavery and reinforced the power dynamics of the time.