Write a five to six (5-6) page paper in which you:
- Explain the principal manner in which the survival of African-Americans from colonial through Civil War times is inextricably rooted in West African traditions. Support your response with at least two aspects of African culture that had survived and manifested themselves in the daily lives of both free and enslaved African-Americans.
- Investigate at least two events between 1619?1860 that demonstrate the ability of enslaved and free African-Americans to overcome the legal limitations on their claims to dignity and self-respect. Provide your rationale for selecting the two events in question.
- Examine the manner in which your two chosen events showcase the ability of the U.S. Constitution and Declaration of Independence to live up to their promises. Include specific examples from both documents that reinforce your argument.