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The history of food, disease, and medicine in the black community: a thread 
This thread might jump around a tad bit but thatâs ok. Also check out my thread dedicated to black women. https://twitter.com/coachwilmore_/status/1091504657044779008?s=21
#1: BBQ
BBQ originally began with the roasted pig. In West Africa, hogs were prepared by burning their hair off with brown sage, then washed & roasted. Slaves were often called on during the 4th of July to help their masters win over constituents with the BBQ they cooked.
BBQ originally began with the roasted pig. In West Africa, hogs were prepared by burning their hair off with brown sage, then washed & roasted. Slaves were often called on during the 4th of July to help their masters win over constituents with the BBQ they cooked.
#2: Origins of vaccinations (Part 1)
Africans contributed to a number of cures for diseases in America based on their knowledge from the Old World. Theyâre credited with bringing over folk treatment for small pox, snake bites, the c-section/midwifery procedures & other poisons.
Africans contributed to a number of cures for diseases in America based on their knowledge from the Old World. Theyâre credited with bringing over folk treatment for small pox, snake bites, the c-section/midwifery procedures & other poisons.
#3: Gumbo
Classic gumbo did not include shellfish, chicken, turkey, ham, sausage etc. Gumbo or Gombo is a Bantu word meaning âokraâ. This new style gumbo is characterized as faux gumbo and holds more of a European foundation.
Classic gumbo did not include shellfish, chicken, turkey, ham, sausage etc. Gumbo or Gombo is a Bantu word meaning âokraâ. This new style gumbo is characterized as faux gumbo and holds more of a European foundation.
#4: The Watermelon Contest
Before emancipation, watermelon was associated with peasantry. After emancipation, the convenience of watermelon helped blacks become self sufficient off of it. A film that continued the stereotype that blacks loved the fruit was The Watermelon Contest
Before emancipation, watermelon was associated with peasantry. After emancipation, the convenience of watermelon helped blacks become self sufficient off of it. A film that continued the stereotype that blacks loved the fruit was The Watermelon Contest
#5: Music (Part 1)
To the Minianka people, itâs unheard of for the responsibilities of music making and restoring health to be separate as they are in the West. Music in their culture keeps order/sustains harmony within and it also enhances the life process in the crops.
To the Minianka people, itâs unheard of for the responsibilities of music making and restoring health to be separate as they are in the West. Music in their culture keeps order/sustains harmony within and it also enhances the life process in the crops.
#6: The Rattlesnake Master
As a slave, Caesars freedom was purchased by the General Assembly and they granted him a pension of 100 pounds per month for life in exchange for his cures of those whoâd been bit by a rattlesnake or had swallowed poison. The herb he used was aloe.
As a slave, Caesars freedom was purchased by the General Assembly and they granted him a pension of 100 pounds per month for life in exchange for his cures of those whoâd been bit by a rattlesnake or had swallowed poison. The herb he used was aloe.
#7: Soul Food
The term âsoul foodâ did not come into widespread usage until the 1960s. The meals made from leftovers during slavery were called juba. The juba was placed in a large pot, and the slaves working in the Big House would share with those in the field.
The term âsoul foodâ did not come into widespread usage until the 1960s. The meals made from leftovers during slavery were called juba. The juba was placed in a large pot, and the slaves working in the Big House would share with those in the field.
#8: Collard Greens
Greens were introduced to Africans through Europeans during the transatlantic slave trade and a âmess o greensâ was known as a family serving of greens. They would also be served on New Years as tradition along w/ Hoppinâ John or black eyed peas and rice.
Greens were introduced to Africans through Europeans during the transatlantic slave trade and a âmess o greensâ was known as a family serving of greens. They would also be served on New Years as tradition along w/ Hoppinâ John or black eyed peas and rice.
#9: Sunday tradition
During slavery, Sunday was the only day slaves were allowed to prepare foods that involved âprestigeâ ingredients so Sunday dinners were highly anticipated. Foods made only on Sunday were: fried chicken, hams, biscuits/rolls, cakes, cobblers, spoonbread etc.
During slavery, Sunday was the only day slaves were allowed to prepare foods that involved âprestigeâ ingredients so Sunday dinners were highly anticipated. Foods made only on Sunday were: fried chicken, hams, biscuits/rolls, cakes, cobblers, spoonbread etc.
#10: Cato
Cato was a slave who worked on the campus of Dartmouth college. His corpse was used as the 1st medical skeleton. They created it by 1st peeling off his skin, boiling his corpse in a giant kettle to free the skeleton, wired it up & tanned the skin to dress the skeleton.
Cato was a slave who worked on the campus of Dartmouth college. His corpse was used as the 1st medical skeleton. They created it by 1st peeling off his skin, boiling his corpse in a giant kettle to free the skeleton, wired it up & tanned the skin to dress the skeleton.
#11: Fish (Part 1)
Fish was often used as a cheaper route to feeding a slave. Although this has no connection
, I want to talk abt how the fish was label sacred. It was used in many ancient civilizations as well as Christianity. It was originally used to represent the vagina.
Fish was often used as a cheaper route to feeding a slave. Although this has no connection
, I want to talk abt how the fish was label sacred. It was used in many ancient civilizations as well as Christianity. It was originally used to represent the vagina.
Another one of my threads https://twitter.com/coachwilmore_/status/1049707018737598464?s=21
#12: Pancakes
In West & Central Africa, fufu is prepped by mixing palm oil and cassava, yam or plantain flour and from these similar mixes, slaves made hoecakes. A recipe only the enslaved woman would know, would later evolve into what we know as pancakes & hot water cornbread.
In West & Central Africa, fufu is prepped by mixing palm oil and cassava, yam or plantain flour and from these similar mixes, slaves made hoecakes. A recipe only the enslaved woman would know, would later evolve into what we know as pancakes & hot water cornbread.
#13: Imhotep
Hippocrates is known as the Father of Medicine but he learned his knowledge in the Temple of Amenhotep. Imhotep wrote the 1st medical papyrus including surgeries & the âexaminations, diagnosis treatment & prognosisâ of over 40 aliments dating back to the 3rd dynasty
Hippocrates is known as the Father of Medicine but he learned his knowledge in the Temple of Amenhotep. Imhotep wrote the 1st medical papyrus including surgeries & the âexaminations, diagnosis treatment & prognosisâ of over 40 aliments dating back to the 3rd dynasty
#14: Sterilization (Part 1)
For yrs, sterilization has been weaponized in AA communities.When the NC Eugenic Commission sterilized 8000 mentally disabled throughout the 1930s, 5000 were black. In 1983, 43% of the women sterilized in federally funded family programs were black 2
For yrs, sterilization has been weaponized in AA communities.When the NC Eugenic Commission sterilized 8000 mentally disabled throughout the 1930s, 5000 were black. In 1983, 43% of the women sterilized in federally funded family programs were black 2
#15: Sowing Seeds
Africans during the Middle Passage or while being transported to a different plantation, would bring w/ them in their hair or their clothes okra/sesame seeds or rice. This was done as another survival tactic under two strand braids.
Africans during the Middle Passage or while being transported to a different plantation, would bring w/ them in their hair or their clothes okra/sesame seeds or rice. This was done as another survival tactic under two strand braids.
#16: Cooking Styles (Part 1)
Anthropologist, William Bascom found 6 basic preparation techniques that can extend back to West Africa:
⢠Boiling in water
⢠steaming in leaves
⢠frying in deep oil
⢠toasting beside the fire(grilling)
⢠roadtinf in the fire
⢠baking in ashes
Anthropologist, William Bascom found 6 basic preparation techniques that can extend back to West Africa:
⢠Boiling in water
⢠steaming in leaves
⢠frying in deep oil
⢠toasting beside the fire(grilling)
⢠roadtinf in the fire
⢠baking in ashes
#17: Yams/sweet potatoes
AA have a special connection with the yam, originating out of West Africa. Itâs so important that locals in Louisiana celebrate it at an annual festival called Yambilee. The yam can be used to regulate bowels, help clear skin + other medicinal values.
AA have a special connection with the yam, originating out of West Africa. Itâs so important that locals in Louisiana celebrate it at an annual festival called Yambilee. The yam can be used to regulate bowels, help clear skin + other medicinal values.
#18: James Derham
James Derham is often referred to as the âfirst black physician in the USâ. He spent most of his years in enslavement under other white physicians and grew so skilled that after he eventually gained his freedom, became one of the leading doctors in NOLA.
James Derham is often referred to as the âfirst black physician in the USâ. He spent most of his years in enslavement under other white physicians and grew so skilled that after he eventually gained his freedom, became one of the leading doctors in NOLA.
#19: James Marion Sims
James Marion Sims was the so called Father of gynecology. He was a surgeon from Alabama & widely known for his reproductive experiments done on black women. Most experiments were executed without consent & under the notion that blacks could not feel pain.
James Marion Sims was the so called Father of gynecology. He was a surgeon from Alabama & widely known for his reproductive experiments done on black women. Most experiments were executed without consent & under the notion that blacks could not feel pain.
#20: Jambalaya
Jambalaya is a rice based dish that emerged during the 18th century in Louisiana. The typical seasoning of this dish, like many other things have West African origins but Jambalaya came about because of the rice cultivating of the original slaves of LA.
Jambalaya is a rice based dish that emerged during the 18th century in Louisiana. The typical seasoning of this dish, like many other things have West African origins but Jambalaya came about because of the rice cultivating of the original slaves of LA.
#21: Casper Yeagin (Part 1)
On 9/11/77, C. Yeagin vanished. He was originally checked in Howard Uniâs hospital under John Doe although he had his nephews # & address in his pocket. Over the next few months, his sisters were repeatedly told no one of his description was admitted
On 9/11/77, C. Yeagin vanished. He was originally checked in Howard Uniâs hospital under John Doe although he had his nephews # & address in his pocket. Over the next few months, his sisters were repeatedly told no one of his description was admitted
#22: Casper Yeagin (Part 2)
He died 11/3 but his body wasnât found until that following January. The family was told, he died of some illness but doctors were not able to identify that illness. The family also stated his body was being used for medical experimentation.
He died 11/3 but his body wasnât found until that following January. The family was told, he died of some illness but doctors were not able to identify that illness. The family also stated his body was being used for medical experimentation.
#23: Pork (Part 1)
According to historians, pork consumption in the colonial South was three times that of Europe. Outside of pork, the slave diet relied heavily on corn, peas, turnips, potatoâs and okra. Pork was also used to help season & flavor vegetables.
According to historians, pork consumption in the colonial South was three times that of Europe. Outside of pork, the slave diet relied heavily on corn, peas, turnips, potatoâs and okra. Pork was also used to help season & flavor vegetables.
#24: Rainmakers (Part 1)
Their job description is within their name. Rainmakers are spiritually connected w/ the divine & they are called upon when severe droughts hit. One ritual associated w/ Rainmakers are burying a child alive to sacrifice to the Gods in exchange for rain.
Their job description is within their name. Rainmakers are spiritually connected w/ the divine & they are called upon when severe droughts hit. One ritual associated w/ Rainmakers are burying a child alive to sacrifice to the Gods in exchange for rain.
#25: Slave Testing (Part 1)
During the 18th & 19th centuries, it was most popular for whites to experiment medicines on black slaves. For an example, whites would test anesthesia on slaves by âcapturingâ them and forcing them to inhale ether from a handkerchief.
During the 18th & 19th centuries, it was most popular for whites to experiment medicines on black slaves. For an example, whites would test anesthesia on slaves by âcapturingâ them and forcing them to inhale ether from a handkerchief.
#26: Slave Market (Part 1)
Bc a well fed, good mannered & well built slave could go for as high as $3000, slaves were given the appearance of being well fed before traders. For example, mistresses would take meat skins & grease the mouths of slaves for the âwell fedâ appearance.
Bc a well fed, good mannered & well built slave could go for as high as $3000, slaves were given the appearance of being well fed before traders. For example, mistresses would take meat skins & grease the mouths of slaves for the âwell fedâ appearance.
#27: Sickhouses (Part 1)
Large plantations usually had hospitals or infirmaries for slaves and these were known as âsickhousesâ. They were staffed by other enslaved African women even though the slave owners usual preference was for a white person.
Large plantations usually had hospitals or infirmaries for slaves and these were known as âsickhousesâ. They were staffed by other enslaved African women even though the slave owners usual preference was for a white person.
#28: The First Medical Skeleton (Part 1)
Dartmouth College has its origins in the Moors Indian Charity School which was founded in 1754. Dartmouthâs official founding year is 1769 by a slave holder named Eleazar Wheelock.
Dartmouth College has its origins in the Moors Indian Charity School which was founded in 1754. Dartmouthâs official founding year is 1769 by a slave holder named Eleazar Wheelock.
#29: The First Medical Skeleton (Part 2)
When Wheelock set out for Hanover, New Hampshire with the charter for Dartmouth, he brought 8 enslaved blacks with him. During the early years of the school, there were more slaves on campus than faculty, administration, and trustees.
When Wheelock set out for Hanover, New Hampshire with the charter for Dartmouth, he brought 8 enslaved blacks with him. During the early years of the school, there were more slaves on campus than faculty, administration, and trustees.
#30: The First Medical Skeleton (Part 3)
There was a slave named Cato who had died shortly after the founding of the school. Dr. Joseph Lewis was the personal physician to President Wheelock & to create one of the first modern medical skeletons, this is what he did.........
There was a slave named Cato who had died shortly after the founding of the school. Dr. Joseph Lewis was the personal physician to President Wheelock & to create one of the first modern medical skeletons, this is what he did.........
#31: The First Medical Skeleton (Part 4)
He first peeled the skin from Catos body. After that, he then boiled his body in a giant kettle.
Lastly, he wired the body up and took his skin to be tanned and used to dress the instrument case.
He first peeled the skin from Catos body. After that, he then boiled his body in a giant kettle.
Lastly, he wired the body up and took his skin to be tanned and used to dress the instrument case.
#32: The First Medical Skeleton (Part 5)
In 1811, Dartmouthâs medical school moved into its own building and a number of skeletons used for their studies (all were held in their basement) were those of enslaved blacks who had deceased.
In 1811, Dartmouthâs medical school moved into its own building and a number of skeletons used for their studies (all were held in their basement) were those of enslaved blacks who had deceased.
#33: The First Medical Skeleton (Part 6)
The medical students were known for entertaining themselves by âterrorizingâ the campus and town at night with the bones of slaves. Most of the enslaved and free black laborers in the colleges history are now buried in the campus cemetery
The medical students were known for entertaining themselves by âterrorizingâ the campus and town at night with the bones of slaves. Most of the enslaved and free black laborers in the colleges history are now buried in the campus cemetery
#34: Syphilis
The Negro arrived in the new world free of tuberculosis, syphilis and other venereal diseases. Livingstone, the famous medical doctor said âSyphilis dies out in the African interior. It seems incapable of permanence in any form in persons of African blood.â
The Negro arrived in the new world free of tuberculosis, syphilis and other venereal diseases. Livingstone, the famous medical doctor said âSyphilis dies out in the African interior. It seems incapable of permanence in any form in persons of African blood.â
#35: Law (Part 1)
Europeans have always misunderstood voodoo & forest healing. Plants too, were often used to poison slave masters so in Georgia & other places during the 18th century, it became illegal for a slave to teach another slave the knowledge of plants & herbal life.
Europeans have always misunderstood voodoo & forest healing. Plants too, were often used to poison slave masters so in Georgia & other places during the 18th century, it became illegal for a slave to teach another slave the knowledge of plants & herbal life.
#36: Thirfty Gene
The Western Diet is high in fats & sugars. Thereâs something called the Thrifty Gene & itâs mostly found in African Americans. This gene slows down metabolism & w/ a Western diet, this could possibly have caused the type 2 diabites epidemic in African Americans
The Western Diet is high in fats & sugars. Thereâs something called the Thrifty Gene & itâs mostly found in African Americans. This gene slows down metabolism & w/ a Western diet, this could possibly have caused the type 2 diabites epidemic in African Americans
#37: Salt
Theres a popular African oral tradition related to blacks from all over the diaspora stating the same stories of blacks having the ability to fly but losing it during slavery bc of their new diets. Salt in Africa was used to detain evil spirits/hold them to the ground
Theres a popular African oral tradition related to blacks from all over the diaspora stating the same stories of blacks having the ability to fly but losing it during slavery bc of their new diets. Salt in Africa was used to detain evil spirits/hold them to the ground
#38: Healing instruments (Part 1)
The swing originally was a healing instrument. The patient would be ordered to swing through a force field causing a polarization of energies on a psychic/physical level. It was called a Pendulum Pyramidal Healing Device,below is a variant of it
The swing originally was a healing instrument. The patient would be ordered to swing through a force field causing a polarization of energies on a psychic/physical level. It was called a Pendulum Pyramidal Healing Device,below is a variant of it
#39: The Lute
The Lute entered what we know as Spain today, in the 8th century. The Moors occupied Spain at the moment & they used this instrument as a healing device to help release any bodily clogs. Another string was added by the Moors and this is where the guitar comes from.
The Lute entered what we know as Spain today, in the 8th century. The Moors occupied Spain at the moment & they used this instrument as a healing device to help release any bodily clogs. Another string was added by the Moors and this is where the guitar comes from.
#40: Margaret Sanger (Part 1)
After Sanger founded Planned Parenthood in alliance w/ the eugenics movement, she began researching African American birth patterns in Harlem. She recruited black leaders to support her research such as Dubois & Fisks Charles Johnson
After Sanger founded Planned Parenthood in alliance w/ the eugenics movement, she began researching African American birth patterns in Harlem. She recruited black leaders to support her research such as Dubois & Fisks Charles Johnson
#41: Margaret Sanger (Part 2)
Johnson, Fisks 1st Black Pres. claimed eugenics discrimination was necessary, many other blacks agreed. Dubois told Sanger she should approach black churches so her info could be published in black newspapers. She took his advice.
Johnson, Fisks 1st Black Pres. claimed eugenics discrimination was necessary, many other blacks agreed. Dubois told Sanger she should approach black churches so her info could be published in black newspapers. She took his advice.
#42: Watermelon (Part 2)
The ancestor of the watermelon we know today first grew in Africa, but its âprototypeâ was originally a bitter melon grown on savannas for its edible seeds and as a storable form of moisture. Historians place its origins in Egypt, 4000 years ago.
The ancestor of the watermelon we know today first grew in Africa, but its âprototypeâ was originally a bitter melon grown on savannas for its edible seeds and as a storable form of moisture. Historians place its origins in Egypt, 4000 years ago.
#43: Dr. T. Stillman (Part 1)
Tillman during the 1830s put out a advertisement for 50 negros in the Charleston Mercury to any slave masters wishing to dispose of their slaves. Those who became too old or sick to work was often supplied as âclinical materialâ.
Tillman during the 1830s put out a advertisement for 50 negros in the Charleston Mercury to any slave masters wishing to dispose of their slaves. Those who became too old or sick to work was often supplied as âclinical materialâ.
#44: Whistle Walk
The Whistling Walk was something slaves did to prove they werenât eating their slave masters food. From the kitchen to the dining room, slaves had to whistle to prove there was no food in their mouth from what was prepared for their master.
The Whistling Walk was something slaves did to prove they werenât eating their slave masters food. From the kitchen to the dining room, slaves had to whistle to prove there was no food in their mouth from what was prepared for their master.
#45: Hush Puppies
What you know as âHush Puppiesâ came from The Whistling Walk. Slaves would deep fry bits of cornbread and tuck them into their pockets. When the hunting dogs came during the whistling, theyâd feed them the cornbread to silence/calm them.
What you know as âHush Puppiesâ came from The Whistling Walk. Slaves would deep fry bits of cornbread and tuck them into their pockets. When the hunting dogs came during the whistling, theyâd feed them the cornbread to silence/calm them.
#46: Opium (Part 1)
We know who Harriet Tubman is and what she was known for. A little bit more information about Tubman and how she was so effective, she sometimes drugged babies with opium to keep them from crying on escape routes.
We know who Harriet Tubman is and what she was known for. A little bit more information about Tubman and how she was so effective, she sometimes drugged babies with opium to keep them from crying on escape routes.
#47: Birdman
You would earn the title, âBirdmanâ during slavery if you tended & raised the chicken from egg to slaughter, fed them, housed them and kept them safe from prey. There were many different livestock that slaves were not allowed to own, the chicken was not on that list
You would earn the title, âBirdmanâ during slavery if you tended & raised the chicken from egg to slaughter, fed them, housed them and kept them safe from prey. There were many different livestock that slaves were not allowed to own, the chicken was not on that list
#48: HIV/AIDS (Part 1)
HIV is stated to have originated in 1921. The first to acquire the virus was most likely a hunter from Central Africa who got it from a chimp. While dismembering him, he injured himself, blood samples were exchanged & thatâs how it originally was started.
HIV is stated to have originated in 1921. The first to acquire the virus was most likely a hunter from Central Africa who got it from a chimp. While dismembering him, he injured himself, blood samples were exchanged & thatâs how it originally was started.
#49: HIV/AIDS (Part 2)
The ancestor of HIV is SIV, itâs been around for millions of years. If you inject a monkey w/ high doses of HIV, theyâll develop antibodies like humans & then the HIV disappears. Keep in mind that our DNA is almost identical, why do you think this occurs?
The ancestor of HIV is SIV, itâs been around for millions of years. If you inject a monkey w/ high doses of HIV, theyâll develop antibodies like humans & then the HIV disappears. Keep in mind that our DNA is almost identical, why do you think this occurs?
#50: HIV/AIDS (Part 3)
Hillary Koprowski created the polio vaccine that was administered around the world. Leopoldville in 1957-1960 is were he originally tested his newly created polio vaccine. Two years after its first wave of the vaccinations, HIV showed up in the same area
Hillary Koprowski created the polio vaccine that was administered around the world. Leopoldville in 1957-1960 is were he originally tested his newly created polio vaccine. Two years after its first wave of the vaccinations, HIV showed up in the same area
#51: Shuckinâ and jivinâ
Iâm pretty sure youâve heard your elders say this phrase before, meaning to mislead, lie etc. This term goes back to the days of slavery when slaves would entertain one another with exaggerated tales while shucking corn.
Iâm pretty sure youâve heard your elders say this phrase before, meaning to mislead, lie etc. This term goes back to the days of slavery when slaves would entertain one another with exaggerated tales while shucking corn.
#52: Pygmies (Part 1)
Charms were 1st used by Africans. The Leprechaun was also produced out of the perception of the African Pygmies, the first inhabitants of Ireland, who practiced forest healing.
The colonizers incorrectly categorized this to be âmagical healingâ.
Charms were 1st used by Africans. The Leprechaun was also produced out of the perception of the African Pygmies, the first inhabitants of Ireland, who practiced forest healing.
The colonizers incorrectly categorized this to be âmagical healingâ.
#53: Drapetomania
Drapetomania - a mental illness causing enslaved Africans to flee their masters/slave runaway syndrome.
This term was coined by Samuel Cartwright
Drapetomania - a mental illness causing enslaved Africans to flee their masters/slave runaway syndrome.
This term was coined by Samuel Cartwright
#54: Goofy Goober
The peanut originated in Portugal and Brazil, it was transported to Africa by the Portuguese. It got to North America through the slave ships, along with itâs African name from the Kimbundu word nguba which meant goober.
The peanut originated in Portugal and Brazil, it was transported to Africa by the Portuguese. It got to North America through the slave ships, along with itâs African name from the Kimbundu word nguba which meant goober.
#55: Imhotep (Part 1)
Imhotep is the true Father of medicine. Well studied in many subjects, he was the worlds first documented multi genius who also wrote the first medical papyrus. Under the Greeks, he was known as Asclepius and he is referenced in the Hippocratic Oath.
Imhotep is the true Father of medicine. Well studied in many subjects, he was the worlds first documented multi genius who also wrote the first medical papyrus. Under the Greeks, he was known as Asclepius and he is referenced in the Hippocratic Oath.
#56: Slave Torture (Part 1)
French torture methods, being:
boiled alive
buried alive in an ant hill for them to eat through your skull
adding salt/pepper to a wound
packing a slaves anus/vagina w/ gun powder & lighting it on fire to explode or shooting in the anus or vagina
French torture methods, being:
boiled alive
buried alive in an ant hill for them to eat through your skull
adding salt/pepper to a wound
packing a slaves anus/vagina w/ gun powder & lighting it on fire to explode or shooting in the anus or vagina
#57: Yidaki (Part 1)
40,000 years ago, aboriginal Australians participated in music healing using the yidaki. They healed broken bones, muscle tears & other illnesses using this musical instrument.
40,000 years ago, aboriginal Australians participated in music healing using the yidaki. They healed broken bones, muscle tears & other illnesses using this musical instrument.
#58: Thanksgiving (Part 1)
Slaves during Thanksgiving, just like Christmas, used the holiday to escape. Sometimes they were given passes from their master to go visit their families and their pass would be their âalibiâ while traveling through the Underground Railroad.
Slaves during Thanksgiving, just like Christmas, used the holiday to escape. Sometimes they were given passes from their master to go visit their families and their pass would be their âalibiâ while traveling through the Underground Railroad.
#59: Mac and Cheese (Part 1)
Mac and Cheese began as a royalty dish in the 1300s (typically just pasta with Parmesan cheese and other small ingredients) because the ingredients were rare and expensive. When it got to America, it was the slaves who were cooking the dish.
Mac and Cheese began as a royalty dish in the 1300s (typically just pasta with Parmesan cheese and other small ingredients) because the ingredients were rare and expensive. When it got to America, it was the slaves who were cooking the dish.
#60: Red Drank (Part 1)
Blacks seem to be attached to red drinks through cultural memory. There were two red drinks that came to America from Africa: kola tea & bissap. If you look through history, in communal settings or during rituals there was always a red drink involved
Blacks seem to be attached to red drinks through cultural memory. There were two red drinks that came to America from Africa: kola tea & bissap. If you look through history, in communal settings or during rituals there was always a red drink involved
#61: Dirt
One âdiseaseâ associated w/ AA food by whites was the practice of pica/dirt eating. Whites thought pica was contagious & treated slaves by having them eat roasted bat. Originating in Africa, women would eat dirt/clay to gain extra nutrients or to ease morning sickness
One âdiseaseâ associated w/ AA food by whites was the practice of pica/dirt eating. Whites thought pica was contagious & treated slaves by having them eat roasted bat. Originating in Africa, women would eat dirt/clay to gain extra nutrients or to ease morning sickness
#62: Negritude
Benjamin Rush was the so called Father of Psychiatry & he coined the term âNegritudeâ. Negritude, according to Rush, was the disorder of being black. He believed the disease was related to leprosy & itâs only cure was to become white.
Benjamin Rush was the so called Father of Psychiatry & he coined the term âNegritudeâ. Negritude, according to Rush, was the disorder of being black. He believed the disease was related to leprosy & itâs only cure was to become white.
#63: Doll Magic (Part 1)
Dolls/charms were popularly used in Ancient Egypt. Around the 18th dynasty, a man was prosecuted for having made figures of men and women of wax by which he caused sundry, divers pain and sickness to the living beings who they represented.
Dolls/charms were popularly used in Ancient Egypt. Around the 18th dynasty, a man was prosecuted for having made figures of men and women of wax by which he caused sundry, divers pain and sickness to the living beings who they represented.
#64: Muoiin (Part 1)
A Muoiin is a term for medicine men of East Africa. Theyâre knowing for going to the graves of chiefs, cutting off a piece of their flesh and taking it to the woods to prepare medicine that kills people.
A Muoiin is a term for medicine men of East Africa. Theyâre knowing for going to the graves of chiefs, cutting off a piece of their flesh and taking it to the woods to prepare medicine that kills people.
#65: Muoiin (Part 2)
The process includes the medicine man spitting on the footprint of a man, taking up the wetted sand, the nose of a dead hyena, the dung of a ox and heâll cook them all together and use the medicine to kill people under different circumstances.
The process includes the medicine man spitting on the footprint of a man, taking up the wetted sand, the nose of a dead hyena, the dung of a ox and heâll cook them all together and use the medicine to kill people under different circumstances.
#66: Lobster
The European high class looked at lobster as a delicacy, the middle class looked at it as a trash fish because itâs a bottom feeder. Freedmen loved it and the enslaved were only allowed to eat it only twice a week. Anything more was considered abuse.
The European high class looked at lobster as a delicacy, the middle class looked at it as a trash fish because itâs a bottom feeder. Freedmen loved it and the enslaved were only allowed to eat it only twice a week. Anything more was considered abuse.
#67: Christmas
Christmas was similar to any other major holiday during slavery under the discussions of work and travel. As far as food goes, beef for slaves was popular during Christmas in addition to peach cobbler, apple dumplings & whiskey depending on your owner.
Christmas was similar to any other major holiday during slavery under the discussions of work and travel. As far as food goes, beef for slaves was popular during Christmas in addition to peach cobbler, apple dumplings & whiskey depending on your owner.
#68: Dysaethesia Aethiopica (Part 1)
Dysaethesia (abnormal sensation) and Aethiopica seems to be an offshoot of the Greek word for Ethiopian. This was a disease causing mischievousness and/or stupidness in black people free and enslaved due to the insensibility of their nerves.
Dysaethesia (abnormal sensation) and Aethiopica seems to be an offshoot of the Greek word for Ethiopian. This was a disease causing mischievousness and/or stupidness in black people free and enslaved due to the insensibility of their nerves.
#69: Dysaethesia Aethiopica (Part 2)
(Refer to #53 & 68) Sam Cartwright coined both of these diseases. Symptoms for Dysaethesia Aethiopica include:
⢠stealing others
⢠destroying property
⢠being insensible to pain
⢠wandering at night
⢠abusing horses and cattle
etc
(Refer to #53 & 68) Sam Cartwright coined both of these diseases. Symptoms for Dysaethesia Aethiopica include:
⢠stealing others
⢠destroying property
⢠being insensible to pain
⢠wandering at night
⢠abusing horses and cattle
etc
#70: Dysaethesia Aethiopica (Part 3)
In the end, we see that these were obviously not true diseases.
What I explained in each of these were forms of rebellion that whites had mistaken as âdiseaseâ since they believed blacks had no true soul & were meant to be slaves
In the end, we see that these were obviously not true diseases.
What I explained in each of these were forms of rebellion that whites had mistaken as âdiseaseâ since they believed blacks had no true soul & were meant to be slaves
#71: Francois Macandal (Part 1)
A half century before the Haitian Revolution, a man named Macandal would initiate his own rebellion. His main weapon of choice was poison. Heâd sneak it into the food & drinks of whites in San Domingue causing rash, paralysis, fever & other things
A half century before the Haitian Revolution, a man named Macandal would initiate his own rebellion. His main weapon of choice was poison. Heâd sneak it into the food & drinks of whites in San Domingue causing rash, paralysis, fever & other things
#72: Francois Macandal (Part 2)
Betrayed by a black woman, Macandal was captured & burned at the stake. Before his death, he told the crowd heâd return as a mosquito & cause more damage than ever before. 65,000 European soldiers in the Haitian Rev. would die from yellow fever
Betrayed by a black woman, Macandal was captured & burned at the stake. Before his death, he told the crowd heâd return as a mosquito & cause more damage than ever before. 65,000 European soldiers in the Haitian Rev. would die from yellow fever
#73: Medical Experiments (Part 1)
In 1993, at the New York Psychiatric Institute, 34 6-10 year old Black & Hispanic boys were given small doses of fenfluramine. This was done to test a theory that violent or criminal behavior may be predicted by levels of brain chemicals.
In 1993, at the New York Psychiatric Institute, 34 6-10 year old Black & Hispanic boys were given small doses of fenfluramine. This was done to test a theory that violent or criminal behavior may be predicted by levels of brain chemicals.
#74: Medical Experiments (Part 2)
Fenfluramine, a schedule IV drug, is now a banned. Participants for the testing were given $50 for psychiatric tests, an EKG and a physical, another $50 for an MRI, $50 for the âFenfluramine Challenge,â and $25 for transportation.
Fenfluramine, a schedule IV drug, is now a banned. Participants for the testing were given $50 for psychiatric tests, an EKG and a physical, another $50 for an MRI, $50 for the âFenfluramine Challenge,â and $25 for transportation.
#75: Rockefeller (Part 1)
In 1910, the Rockefeller Institute conducted an experiment on 470 blacks who suffered from neurosyphilis. Dr M. Boyd infected them w/ malaria hoping heâd kill off the syphilis, it failed. Next, he tried falciparum which also failed, killing many men
In 1910, the Rockefeller Institute conducted an experiment on 470 blacks who suffered from neurosyphilis. Dr M. Boyd infected them w/ malaria hoping heâd kill off the syphilis, it failed. Next, he tried falciparum which also failed, killing many men
#76: Thomas Edison (Part 1)
During/after slavery,watermelon was grown,sold & ate by AA being one of the most available fruits to come by. It became a symbol of self sufficiency & freedom. Edison helped popularize the stereotype we fight today through his Watermelon contest film
During/after slavery,watermelon was grown,sold & ate by AA being one of the most available fruits to come by. It became a symbol of self sufficiency & freedom. Edison helped popularize the stereotype we fight today through his Watermelon contest film
#77: Melanin (Part 1)
The color of a personâs eyes are directly associated w/ the production, transportation, & storage of melanin. People with brown eyes will have a larger amount of melanin, while people with blue eyes (usually of European ancestry) will have much less melanin
The color of a personâs eyes are directly associated w/ the production, transportation, & storage of melanin. People with brown eyes will have a larger amount of melanin, while people with blue eyes (usually of European ancestry) will have much less melanin
#78: âTuskegeeâ Repeated
In the late 1980s, many states funded research that tested newborns for HIV without their mothers knowledge then withheld the results of the newborn and mother. 68% of those HIV positive were AA and after results were found, treatment was suppressed.
In the late 1980s, many states funded research that tested newborns for HIV without their mothers knowledge then withheld the results of the newborn and mother. 68% of those HIV positive were AA and after results were found, treatment was suppressed.
#79: Pork (Part 1)
By 1500 BC, the people of Egypt began to replace pork with chicken. Pork was switched out by the rich because it became taboo or forbidden for them to eat it. About 500 years later, pig consumption would begin to decline in the Middle East as well.
By 1500 BC, the people of Egypt began to replace pork with chicken. Pork was switched out by the rich because it became taboo or forbidden for them to eat it. About 500 years later, pig consumption would begin to decline in the Middle East as well.
#80: Alcohol
Manganese can be consumed through air pollution(very common in black neighborhoods) & ALSO through malt liquor. Itâs linked to agressive behavior and counties with the highest levels of lead and manganese pollution usually have crime rates 3 times the national avg
Manganese can be consumed through air pollution(very common in black neighborhoods) & ALSO through malt liquor. Itâs linked to agressive behavior and counties with the highest levels of lead and manganese pollution usually have crime rates 3 times the national avg
#81: Cocaine (Part 1)
The reason for many early lynchings in the south were in response to the myth that black men were avid rapists who were addicted to cocaine. This led to the prohibition of then, over the counter drugs like cocaine and opium.
The reason for many early lynchings in the south were in response to the myth that black men were avid rapists who were addicted to cocaine. This led to the prohibition of then, over the counter drugs like cocaine and opium.
#82: Akwaba
The Akwaba is an African fertility symbol of the Ashanti tribe. Itâs usually carved in wood & it commands the same attention as a real infant. Itâs dressed, washed & even âfedâ until the human child is actually born. This doll ensures the healthy birth of a child.
The Akwaba is an African fertility symbol of the Ashanti tribe. Itâs usually carved in wood & it commands the same attention as a real infant. Itâs dressed, washed & even âfedâ until the human child is actually born. This doll ensures the healthy birth of a child.
#83: Blessed Oil
One of the ways to activate the pineal gland is by literally rubbing the middle of your forehead. This is connected to spiritual healing.
Symbolically, when pastors anoint the forehead theyâre unknowingly copying ancient traditions that began in Egypt.
One of the ways to activate the pineal gland is by literally rubbing the middle of your forehead. This is connected to spiritual healing.
Symbolically, when pastors anoint the forehead theyâre unknowingly copying ancient traditions that began in Egypt.
#84: The Wet Nurse (Part 1)
Wet nursing traditionally has been oppressive. In Europe, women would use women of the lower class to feed their children. This practice was brought to America during slavery and the rest is history.
Wet nursing traditionally has been oppressive. In Europe, women would use women of the lower class to feed their children. This practice was brought to America during slavery and the rest is history.
#85: The Wet Nurse (Part 2)
Because of the conditions, black women usually used each otherâs milk to feed their own children. Slaveholders forced enslaved women to wean their own infants early (from around six months), so they could accommodate for white children.
Because of the conditions, black women usually used each otherâs milk to feed their own children. Slaveholders forced enslaved women to wean their own infants early (from around six months), so they could accommodate for white children.
#86: Origins of Southern Hospitality (Part 1)
No one used the phrase âSouthern hospitalityâ until the 1820s or 1830s, when national debates about slavery increased. With the emergence and popularity of enslaved cooks, it was because of their service that the term would emerge.
No one used the phrase âSouthern hospitalityâ until the 1820s or 1830s, when national debates about slavery increased. With the emergence and popularity of enslaved cooks, it was because of their service that the term would emerge.
#87: Origins of Southern Hospitality (Part 2)
Slave cooks were on call 24/7. Whenever a freedman, traditional guest or an outside plantation owner visited, the slave would cook full course meals on demand. Southern Hospitality was also attributed to those who harbored runaways
Slave cooks were on call 24/7. Whenever a freedman, traditional guest or an outside plantation owner visited, the slave would cook full course meals on demand. Southern Hospitality was also attributed to those who harbored runaways
#88: Meditation (Part 1)
Africans used to meditate before cutting parts of trees down. They used to meditate under trees itself or by water....all because they knew that you had to live in harmony with nature.
Africans used to meditate before cutting parts of trees down. They used to meditate under trees itself or by water....all because they knew that you had to live in harmony with nature.
