dw.com
Danish Slave Ships Found off Costa Rica
Archaeologists discovered the remains of two 18th-century Danish slave ships, the Fridericus Quartus and Christianus Quintus, off Costa Rica's coast in 2023, revealing the presence of enslaved Africans in the region centuries earlier than documented and shedding light on a little-known aspect of the Danish transatlantic slave trade.
- What historical evidence supports the identification of the discovered shipwrecks, and what caused their demise?
- Analysis of the recovered wood and bricks, dating to 1690-1695 and originating from the Baltic region and Flensburg, Germany, respectively, corroborates historical records. The ships' demise involved a slave rebellion on the Fridericus Quartus, followed by a second mutiny due to lack of supplies, leading to their stranding off Costa Rica. The Christianus Quintus likely cut its anchor rope while fleeing.
- How does this discovery alter the understanding of Costa Rican history and the lasting impact of the transatlantic slave trade?
- This discovery significantly impacts Costa Rican history, revealing the presence of African people in the Cahuita region at least a century earlier than official records indicate. The find also offers new insights into the Danish transatlantic slave trade's scale and brutality, underscoring the lasting legacy of this historical period. Further research could unveil more details about the lives and experiences of the enslaved people aboard these ships.
- What are the key findings of the recent archaeological discovery off the coast of Costa Rica, and what is their global significance?
- In 2023, archaeologists discovered the remains of two Danish slave ships, Fridericus Quartus and Christianus Quintus, off Costa Rica's coast. These ships, active in the transatlantic slave trade in 1710, were carrying over 800 people. Recovered artifacts include wood, bricks, and clay pipes, confirming their origin and the nature of their cargo.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The framing leans towards highlighting the archaeological discovery and its significance for Danish history. While the impact on Costa Rica is mentioned, the narrative's structure and emphasis initially center on the Danish ships and their historical context. The headline, although not explicitly provided, likely emphasizes the discovery itself rather than the broader implications of the transatlantic slave trade.
Language Bias
The language used is generally neutral and objective. Terms like "slaves" and "enslaved Africans" are used, reflecting a more accurate and sensitive approach compared to older terminology. However, some may find descriptions such as 'dramatic' subjective.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the Danish perspective and the discovery's significance to Danish history. While it mentions the impact on Costa Rican identity and the discovery's implications for Afro-Costa Ricans, a more in-depth exploration of the enslaved Africans' experiences and perspectives, beyond the mention of the rebellion and the finality of their fate, would enrich the narrative. The article lacks details about the living conditions of the enslaved people during the voyage. It also omits information regarding the possible treatment the enslaved Africans received at the hands of the Danish crew, and what their lives were like before they were enslaved.
Sustainable Development Goals
The discovery and acknowledgement of the slave ships and the suffering of enslaved Africans contributes to a more complete and accurate historical record, which can help address present-day inequalities and promote social justice. Understanding this past helps in combating present-day poverty and inequality related to the lasting effects of slavery and the transatlantic slave trade.