May 243 min read

Unveiling the Truth: The Misnomer of "Black Seminoles" and the Hidden Legacy of Indigenous Enslavement

"Seminoles" and the Hidden Legacy of Indigenous Slavery

The term "Black Seminoles" is a historical misnomer that misrepresents the complex identities and experiences of Native American and African people in the United States. The word "Seminole" itself, derived from the Spanish term "cimarrón" meaning "runaway" or "wild," originally referred to various Native American groups that fled European colonization and enslavement efforts(also see Semaroon, Maroons). This label encompassed not just the Seminoles but also other tribes such as the Yamassee who sought refuge from the oppressive plantation systems.

Native American slavery in the early American colonies, especially in South Carolina, predated and often surpassed African slavery in scale and impact. Scholars estimate that between 1650 and 1730, more than 50,000 Native Americans were enslaved and exported by the English, primarily to the Caribbean. This period saw a greater number of Native Americans enslaved than Africans imported into the region during the same timeframe (Lowcountry Digital History Initiative) (ThoughtCo). The Brown University study underscores that native slavery was pervasive, with many indigenous people either distributed locally or sent overseas, disrupting their communities and way of life permanently (Brown University). There were accounts of enslaved Yamassee living among the Seminole Nation in the 1770’s. Although slavery within indigenous communities was vastly different from European chattel enslavement. Many Yamassee were intermarried with their Seminole "master" and their offspring were born free. (Seminole Negro Indian Scouts Society).

Despite the claim of significant African diaspora in the United States, only about 340,000 Africans were directly shipped to the U.S. during the transatlantic slave trade, according to SlaveVoyages.org. This figure suggests that indigenous enslavement within the Americas may have involved even larger numbers due to the inter-colonial slave trade practices and the severe impact on indigenous populations (Brown University).

Reexamining the Term "Black Seminoles": A Historical Misnomer

An example that highlights the misuse of the term "Black Seminoles" is the story of John Horse aka Juan Caballo, John Cowaya, often labeled a "Black Seminole" leader. John Horse himself, in his writings, identified solely as a Seminole born in Florida, not as an African American or "Black," yet history aims to rewrite his own identity by labeling him as such. His life was a testament to the blending and complexity of Seminole identity. He fought for the rights and freedom of his people, including leading efforts to secure a homeland in Mexico free from U.S. slavery. Despite this, he has often been mischaracterized as having African heritage despitehis own self description as a "Seminole, born in Florida". His story is documented extensively by the Seminole Nation Museum and other sources, highlighting his role in resisting enslavement and advocating for his people (Wikipedia) (Seminole Nation Museum) (Welcome to Blackpast •).

Chief Thomi Perryman of the United Warrior Band(great grandson of John Horse). Photo by Liam Wamba

The mischaracterization of John Horse and others under the term "Black Seminoles" disregards their true identity and the historical context of their struggle. These individuals were primarily Indigenous people who found themselves at the intersection of racial and colonial conflicts.

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The discovery of a slave ship carrying Mayan captives to Cuba further emphasizes the broad scope of Indigenous enslavement. This incident underlines the extensive and often overlooked trafficking of Native peoples across the Americas, demonstrating that Indigenous slavery was not a peripheral issue but a central one in colonial history.(Brown University).

Referring to a group of Seminoles as "Black Seminoles" ignores these complexities and perpetuates racial misinterpretations. The Seminoles and their allied tribes, including many who were primarily indigenous, were resisting enslavement and colonization. Recognizing them solely as "Black Seminoles" diminishes their identity and history, reinforcing a Eurocentric and racially divisive narrative.

Therefore, understanding the term "Seminole" in its historical context is crucial. It reflects a broader struggle against colonization and slavery, encompassing diverse indigenous groups and their resistance efforts. This perspective not only corrects historical inaccuracies but also honors the resilience and agency of these communities in their fight for freedom and survival.

In conclusion, the term "Black Seminoles" is not only inaccurate but also perpetuates a historical misunderstanding. Recognizing the true identity and history of these Indigenous peoples is crucial in honoring their legacy and struggles against colonial enslavement and oppression.

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