The Great Passage cruise will retrace the journey of enslaved Africans from Angola to Brazil, focusing on education and historical accountability. Helena Monteiro da Costa, whose father was enslaved, plans to participate, shedding light on the traumatic history of slavery that affected millions from the 16th to the 19th century.
Helena Monteiro da Costa, now 99 years old, anticipates embarking on a historic cruise that retraces the transatlantic journey her father took as a slave from Angola to Brazil during the 19th century. This exceptional voyage, known as the Great Passage, seeks both to educate participants about the traumatic history of slavery and to foster a deeper understanding of the cultural heritage that arose from these experiences. From the 16th to the 19th centuries, approximately five million Africans were forcibly taken to Brazil, with many enduring harrowing conditions during their transport on Portuguese vessels. The cruise not only serves as a personal pilgrimage for Costa but also highlights the broader implications of confronting and acknowledging the painful legacies of the past.
The historical context of this article centers on the transatlantic slave trade, which forcibly transported millions of Africans to the Americas, particularly Brazil, during centuries of colonial exploitation. Between the 16th and 19th centuries, Brazil became a significant destination for enslaved individuals, with Angola supplying a large portion of the enslaved population. The narrative of Helena Monteiro da Costa serves as a poignant reminder of the lasting impact of slavery on families and communities, underlining the need for education and acknowledgment of this dark chapter in history.
In conclusion, the Great Passage cruise represents a significant initiative to honor the memory of those who suffered under slavery while promoting education about this critical aspect of history. Helena Monteiro da Costa’s participation not only symbolizes a personal journey toward reconciliation but also emphasizes the importance of confronting historical injustices as a society. Such endeavors foster a deeper understanding of cultural heritage and promote accountability for the horrors of the past.
Original Source: www.scmp.com
