An evaluation of the reasons for the development of the slave trade

Economic Factors

The development of the Atlantic slave trade was significantly influenced by economic factors such as the demand for cheap labour and the profitability of the triangular trade route.
Sugar production in the New World became highly profitable. Yet, it was labour-intensive and required a large, constant workforce, and enslaved Africans filled that need.
European nations saw the slave trade as an opportunity to gain wealth. They exploited the triangular trade, where they shipped manufactured goods to Africa, enslaved Africans to the Americas, and raw materials back to Europe.
The rise of mercantilism motivated the development of the slave trade. European powers wanted to amass wealth to strengthen their nations, and the revenue from the slave trade contributed to this.

Technological Advancements

Advances in nautical technology during the 15th century, particularly in Portugal and Spain, made long-distance sea travel possible. This paved the way for the exploration of the African continent and the Americas, ultimately leading to the development of the Atlantic slave trade.
The development of guns and weapons facilitated the capture and control of the enslaved people, which further supported the establishment and growth of the slave trade.

Social and Racial Factors

Racism and ethnocentrism played a significant role in the genesis of the Atlantic slave trade. Europeans considered themselves superior to Africans, facilitating the dehumanization of Africans, which made their enslavement more acceptable in European societies.
The indigenous populations in the Americas were decimated due to diseases brought by Europeans. The need for labour in the colonies was filled by enslaved Africans.

Political Factors

The era of colonialism and imperialism saw European nations establish colonies worldwide. The need for labour in these colonies and the desire for wealth and power among European nations propelled the Atlantic slave trade.
Government support and laws were critical in maintaining and propagating the slave trade. Slave codes were enacted to regulate the behaviour of enslaved people and to supply legal support for the institution of slavery.