The Presence of African Slaves in Europe during the Renaissance and Reformation

In the fifteenth century, most African slaves in Europe were found in Spain and Portugal.

During the Renaissance and Reformation period, the demand for African slaves in Europe increased significantly. The European powers, particularly Spain and Portugal, heavily relied on the labor of African slaves to work in plantations, mines, and households.

Spain and Portugal were at the forefront of the European slave trade, establishing trade routes and partnerships with African kingdoms to secure a steady supply of slaves. The transatlantic slave trade played a crucial role in the economy of these countries, as African slaves were considered essential for the colonization and exploitation of the New World.

The presence of African slaves in Spain and Portugal during the fifteenth century was widespread, with many slaves being brought from West Africa to work in various industries. These slaves faced harsh conditions and were often subjected to brutal treatment by their European masters.

Overall, the fifteenth century marked a period of significant expansion of the transatlantic slave trade, with Spain and Portugal being the primary destinations for African slaves in Europe during that time.