The Impact of Always Outlawing Slavery on America’s History

Slavery played a significant role in shaping the United States as it is today. Imagine a scenario in which slavery was always outlawed throughout American history. How different would the landscape of the United States be today? Let’s explore this thought experiment and its potential ramifications.

1. Formation and Unity of the United States

One of the most profound alterations to American history would be the absence of slavery. If slavery had been outlawed right from the start, the Southern states might not have ratified the Constitution. This could have led to a situation where the Southern states did not join the Union, or even considered a separate Union.

In the real world, the Southern states demanded that the Constitution allow them to maintain slavery as a non-negotiable term. This demand led to a series of compromises, including the Three-Fifths Compromise and the Fugitive Slave Clause, which kept the Union together. If slavery had been outlawed, these compromises might not have been necessary, possibly resulting in a different political and social landscape.

2. Democracy, Crime, and General Happiness

The absence of slavery might have led to a more democratic and harmonious society. Without the immense wealth and power created by the institution of slavery, figures like Strom Thurmond, Newt Gingrich, and Mitch McConnell might not have gained such prominence in political circles. These individuals often held anti-democratic and racially-charged views that shaped much of modern American politics.

A society without the race-based ideologies fostered by slavery might have exhibited lower crime rates and higher levels of happiness. The reduction in systemic racism and the associated social issues could have led to a more equitable and contented society.

3. Economic and Technological Changes

The absence of slavery would have likely introduced significant changes to the American economy. Without the labor force of enslaved people, the South might have faced economic collapse. Conversely, without the economic burden of maintaining slavery, an agricultural economy might have shifted to a more equitable agrarian society with freed slaves as paid laborers.

This shift could have led to a more balanced distribution of wealth and resources. Moreover, the lack of slavery could have spurred technological innovation, similar to the conditions that led to the invention of the mechanical reaper by Cyrus McCormick in 1837 and the gas-powered farm tractor by John Froelich in 1892. These inventions revolutionized agriculture and could have potentially transformed the economy centuries earlier than they did under the confines of the slave system.

4. Racial Issues and Legacy

While the abolition of slavery might have led to a more equitable society, it would not erase the societal and psychological effects of centuries of institutionalized racism. In progressive cities like Boston, free African Americans still faced significant discrimination and were often relegated to menial labor such as digging sewers and cleaning outhouses.

The legacy of slavery would continue to shape American society, affecting social, economic, and political structures. Racial issues would persist, prompting ongoing discussions about equality, justice, and reparations.

Conclusion

It’s clear that the absence of slavery would significantly change the course of American history. From the formation of the United States to the economic and social dynamics of the nation, the impact would be far-reaching. While the absence of slavery might have resulted in a more equitable and content society, it would not solve all the racial issues that have plagued American society. The legacy of slavery continues to shape the nation, and its impact is a crucial part of American history to understand and address.