Slave Coast explores the West African slave trade, a transformative process that shaped global demographics and economic systems. The book examines the mechanics of this brutal system, the societal ruptures it caused in West Africa, and the courageous resistance movements it provoked. From the 15th to the 19th centuries, the forced migration of millions had devastating impacts and long-lasting legacies. This history is crucial for comprehending the modern world, as the slave trade created enduring inequalities and shaped cultural identities. The book delves into the economic, social, and political forces that fueled the trade, challenging readers to confront its uncomfortable truths. For example, the rise of plantation economies in the Americas directly correlates to the intensification of the slave trade. By examining the trade from multiple perspectives – African, European, and enslaved – Slave Coast offers a more nuanced understanding of its complexities. It begins by exploring pre-existing systems of slavery within Africa and progresses to detailing the capture, transportation, and sale of enslaved Africans. The central chapters of Slave Coast focus on the devastating consequences for West African societies, including demographic collapse and economic disruption. The book also highlights the diverse forms of resistance employed by enslaved Africans, demonstrating their agency. Concluding sections examine the long-term effects of the transatlantic slave trade on both Africa and the African diaspora, tracing its impact on contemporary issues such as racial inequality and social justice.