History

Question

1. Douglass informs us that at the valuation, where the slaves' value and futures are decided by the

inspectors, he is the most anxious of all the slaves. What reason does he give for this?

Answer

Douglass is most anxious because he fears being separated from his family and friends, as the inspectors have the power to sell them to different slave owners.

Download to view full explanation

Douglass explains in his narrative that during the valuation, the slaves are lined up and inspected by potential buyers. The inspectors examine their physical appearance, health, and abilities to determine their value. The slaves are then sold to the highest bidder, and families and friends are often separated in the process. Douglass is most anxious because he fears being separated from his loved ones and being sold to a cruel master. He knows that the inspectors have the power to decide his fate and the fate of those he cares about, which makes him feel vulnerable and powerless. This fear of separation and loss of community is a common experience among enslaved people, and it highlights the dehumanizing effects of slavery.