Of Old Regimes and Reconstruction Summary and Analysis

The current relations between blacks and whites in America is certainly influenced by slavery but, as well, by the pervasive historical Anglo-Saxon belief in its superiority over the Negro race. Exploitations of inferiors thus naturally occurred, and slavery was actually only one method by which whites ensured the subordination of blacks. Segregation following slavery was based upon premises no different from these historical beliefs, but it certainly was not a practical policy during the period of Southern slavery.

In order to have slaves, there was by necessity a closeness of proximity and even an intimacy between whites and blacks. Most plantations were walled compounds where owners and foremen supervised, policed, and provided medical care to slaves. Domestic slaves lived and worked within the household and often developed intimate relationships with their masters, but...