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Today in History: November 29, 1781: British Slave Ship Zong Killed Over 130 Enslaved Africans

11/29/2025

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Summary

Story summary

On November 29, 1781, the crew of the British slave ship Zong killed over 130 enslaved Africans by throwing them overboard. Facing a severe shortage of drinking water, the crew sought to claim insurance on the lives of the enslaved individuals, highlighting the brutal realities of the Atlantic slave trade and its dehumanizing practices.

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Story summary

On November 29, 1781, the crew of the British slave ship Zong killed over 130 enslaved Africans by throwing them overboard. Facing a severe shortage of drinking water, the crew sought to claim insurance on the lives of the enslaved individuals, highlighting the brutal realities of the Atlantic slave trade and its dehumanizing practices.