Slaves without Shackles: An Archaeology of Everyday Life on Gorée Island, Senegal

Archaeological evidence from Gorée Island, Senegal, reveals the complex social dynamics of a transnational community shaped by slavery and cultural interactions. While slavery is often a central theme in historical narratives about the island, its material traces remain subtle. The study identifies patterns in settlement growth, material culture, and cultural exchanges that illuminate everyday life among free Africans, enslaved people, and Europeans during the 18th century. By analyzing documentary and archaeological records, researchers uncover how diverse identities negotiated coexistence, contributing to a nuanced understanding of Gorée's historical significance as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Thiaw, I. (2011). Slaves without Shackles: An Archaeology of Everyday Life on Gorée Island, Senegal. Slavery in Africa. https://doi.org/10.5871/bacad/9780197264782.003.0008