The First Legal Slave-owner in America was a Black Man

According to colonial records, the first slave owner in the United States was a black man.

Prior to 1655 there were no legal chattel slaves in the colonies, only indentured servants. All masters were required to free their servants after their time was up. Seven years was the limit that an indentured servant could be held.

Upon their release they were granted 50 acres of land. This included any black African purchased from slave traders. Blacks were also granted 50 acres upon their release.

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