MS_0002_03_0005_HandShackles

Title

MS_0002_03_0005_HandShackles

Subject

Slavery, Black Holocaust, Resistance, Reparations, Black Power.

Description

Original Iron Shackles used to chain enslaved people of Africa. Dual clasps cuffs affixed by iron chain. American Slave Chains. Made of solid iron with grappled or simple-twist locks, these chains were used to restrain the feet or ankles of slaves, allowing them to walk but preventing running or kicking. The leg irons are also known as fetters, shackles, or foot cuffs.

Resistance to slavery by African people developed almost as soon as the institution itself. Running away remained the number 1 problem for slave holders. Other forms of resistance on the part of Africans included legal petitions, educational pursuits, small and large scale rebellions, as well as other forms of protest. Slavery officially ended after the Civil War and the signing of the 13th amendment both occurring in 1865.

Creator

James N. Eaton Sr. Slave Memorabilia

Identifier

03

Publisher

Elona Jones

shortDescription

These items were identified and purchased by MEBA founder James N. Eaton Sr. They are part of a larger collection of items used during the Slavery period in America. Africans, especially men, were restrained by control devices that included whips, ropes, arm and leg irons, guns, and canons.

Audience

General Public, ages 12 and above.

Medium

Iron