James Madison and Slavery

In chapter nine, we learn about James Madison and his relationship with his slaves. Like many others, James Madison owned slaves. He actually did not believe in slavery and thought it was wrong. In the chapter, it says that he treated his slaves very well. Their housing was fifty yards away and they had wooden floors, instead of dirt, and glass windows. This could leave a reader feeling as though these slaves were treated as humans, with respect. It somewhat allows a reader to feel as though slavery by Madison, was ok and justifiable due to his treatment to his slaves were significantly better. If one believes that slavery is wrong, then that person should not have over a hundred slaves.

Madison struggled with his personal beliefs and the beliefs of society. He spoke more than the previous presidents on slavery and his anti-slave beliefs.  He also wanted his wife and himself to maintain their lifestyle. None of this would be possible without 100 free laborers. So of course, he kept them all. Once James Madison died, he did not free a single slave. Actions speak louder than words.

I think we have to keep in mind that his slaves were referred to as his slaves not people. They were property. I do not see an respect in calling one human another humans property. Just because their living conditions are better than a dog, it does not mean that they were treated well. Slaves were taken away from their families, freedom stolen, and worked all day long for no pay. A simple decorative plate does not make the life of a slave any more glamorous or comfortable than the fact of the matter. Don’t sugar coat the situation. There’s nothing refreshing or positive about it. A slave is a slave.