"White women were active & violent participants in the slave market. They bought, sold, managed & sought the return of enslaved people. Owning a large number of enslaved people made a woman a better marriage prospect." #BlackHistory

In 1759, George Washington, prior to marrying his wife Martha, owned approximately 17 slaves at his Mt. Vernon residence. Martha dramatically increased the slave population there. As one of the richest women in Virginia, she owned approximately 84 slaves. #blackhistory

White women often tore black women away from their babies so they could nurse the white mistress’ baby instead. This activity created a huge market for enslaved black women who had recently given birth. #BlackHistory