The first African Americans arrived in the United States in 1619. Many African Americans arrived as servants and had equal legal status as white servants. A Dutch vessel carrying twenty Africans pulled up to the shores of Jamestown looking to sell off these Africans to Virginia settlers. Because of their physical differences, slavery gradually evolved to the point of separation of black and whites. After converting to christianity, many African Americans had an opportunity to gain their freedom. During this time prior to slavery, these individuals were viewed as servants rather than slaves. The institution of slavery has left a legacy in which describes African American identities today.
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