Part 1/8:
The Hidden History of Fort Mose: Freedom and Resilience
The narrative of African-Americans in the colonial history of the United States is often overshadowed by the commonly told tale of enslavement. Contrary to popular belief, not all African individuals encountered in the Americas were slaves, and the first Africans were part of a broader tapestry of contributors to the New World. Among them were sailors, soldiers, and settlers who arrived as early as the 15th century. Notably, Juan Las Canarias, a free black sailor, served on Columbus's flagship during his 1492 voyage. These individuals, often referred to as “ladinos,” were part of the Spanish colonization efforts and played a pivotal role in the early history of the Americas.