In history, slavery is commonly known as a civil injustice and an unethical practice. The United States was identified as one of the countries that depended on slavery in it’s early economic stages. America wasn’t the only nation that relied on forced labor for it’s production of income and goods, also in the 18th century, the Portuguese participated in the slave trade as well. The Portuguese set a republic in place which we now know as Brazil. Millions of slaves were transported or “settled” into both of these newborn nations. It is said that, only a third of the slaves that were involved in the slave trade actually made it to their new lifes across the Atlantic Ocean. Although they would be considered a slave regardless, the destination after their journey over sea would decide their fate.

Our society views slavery as a horrific ordeal for those from Africa or any other countries who were unfortunate enough to experience it. That is due to the upbringing of American culture. During the same time period in Brazil, slaves also existed but not in the same sense as the “traditional” American slave. Slaves owned by the Portuguese were given opportunities in society and even chances to hold political office. To those in the U.S., this was completely unheard of. Even a slight glance at a white slave owner or slave owner’s family member could result in sever beating or even death in some instances. On the other hand, beautiful women who were biracial slaves were even known to have slaves of their own. This would never happen in 18th Century America.

It’s quite perplexing how two nations so close to each other geographically, can instill two different methods in their society. The people of Brazil accepted that slaves had the potential to be their equal but underwent a few shortcomings. But in America, the slave was looked down in all aspects, intelligence, wealth, etc. The slave trade is a prime example of how social Darwinism can be implemented to differentiate situations.