Question

What humans and natural variables could prolong the middle passage across the Atlantic? How could delay make the voyage more dangerous for slaves and crew?

a. Strong ocean currents and crew experience
b. Lack of wind and navigation errors
c. Efficient navigation and favorable winds
d. Adequate food supplies and well-maintained ships

Answer 1

Lack of wind and navigation errors could prolong the Middle Passage across the Atlantic, making the journey more dangerous for slaves and crew.Option B is the correct answer.

Step-by-step explanation:

The correct option would be option B which states that lack of wind and navigation errors could prolong the Middle Passage across the Atlantic. The Middle Passage was the voyage across the Atlantic in which enslaved Africans were transported to the Americas. If there was a lack of wind, the journey would be slower and it could take longer for the ships to reach their destination. Navigation errors could also lead to longer voyages as ships could get off course and have to backtrack or take longer detours.

Delay in the Middle Passage could make the voyage more dangerous for both the enslaved people and the crew. The conditions on the ships were already brutal, and longer delays would mean that the enslaved Africans would have to endure even more time in cramped and unsanitary conditions.

Lack of adequate food and water supplies could lead to starvation and illness among the slaves. For the crew, delays could mean increased exposure to the risks and dangers of sailing, such as storms, pirate attacks, or outbreaks of disease.