The Problem of Slavery in Christian America: An Ethical-Judicial History of American Slavery and Racism

by Joel McDurmon

New York’s progressive code changes responded not only to crises but to a steady increase in slave numbers in general as well. By 1703, blacks totaled about 11 percent of the population. In 1711, the authorities established a slave market on Wall Street. By 1723, slaves reached 15 percent of the population. By 1732, the city imposed a stiff duty on slaves imported directly from Africa, preferring instead the already “seasoned” slaves from the Caribbean.39 In addition to increased numbers of slaves and code changes in other northern colonies, New England continued to lead the transatlantic trade in supplying the North American colonies with slaves throughout the century.