- Overcrowding: Slave ships were notoriously overcrowded, with hundreds of Africans packed into tight and unsanitary quarters below deck. They were often forced to lie side by side, chained together with little space to move. The overcrowding led to the spread of diseases and infections, resulting in high mortality rates.
- Unsanitary conditions: The slave ships were filthy and lacked proper sanitation. The holds where the enslaved were kept were rarely cleaned, and the waste accumulated, creating a foul stench. The lack of ventilation and fresh air made the conditions even more unbearable, leading to respiratory illnesses and other health problems.
- Inadequate food and water: The enslaved were often given meager rations of food and water, which were often spoiled or contaminated. They suffered from malnutrition and dehydration, further weakening their already compromised immune systems.
- Physical abuse: The slaves were subjected to brutal physical abuse by the crew members. They were whipped, beaten, and tortured as punishment for any perceived disobedience. The brutality was extreme, and many enslaved individuals lost their lives due to the injuries inflicted upon them.
- Psychological trauma: The entire experience of being captured, transported, and sold as a commodity was devastating to the mental well-being of the enslaved Africans. They were subjected to constant fear, humiliation, and loss of dignity, which left lasting psychological scars.
- Death and disease: The combination of harsh conditions, malnutrition, and abuse led to high mortality rates on the slave ships. Diseases like smallpox, dysentery, and yellow fever spread rapidly, claiming the lives of countless enslaved Africans.
The transatlantic slave trade was a period of immense suffering and cruelty, and the treatment of enslaved Africans during the Middle Passage was a flagrant violation of human rights. The physical and psychological scars of this harrowing journey left a lasting impact on the lives of those who survived and contributed to the trauma and collective memory of the African diaspora.