First enslaved Africans are brought to Virginia

First enslaved Africans are brought to Virginia

5 years ago By Chase Brush
Teaser

After stealing them from a Portuguese vessel in the Caribbean, two English privateers bring the first enslaved Africans to the Jamestown settlement in Virginia, where they're bought by colonists. The day marks the beginning of two and a half centuries of slavery in America. 

More »

Year
1619
Date of Event

Help us keep telling the story of America.

For over 75 years, American Heritage has relied on contributions from readers like you to survive. You can support this magazine of trusted historical writing and the volunteers that sustain it by donating today.

Donate

About American Heritage

For 75 years, American Heritage has been the leading magazine of U.S. history, politics, and culture. Read more about the magazine >>

The magazine was forced to suspend print publication in 2013, but a group of volunteers saved the archives and relaunched the magazine in digital form in 2017. Free subscription >>  

American Heritage is published by the National Historical Society,  a non-partisan 501(c)3 membership society. Please consider a donation to help us keep this American treasure alive. Support with a donation >>

FIND US ON SOCIAL MEDIA

© Copyright 1949-2025 American Heritage Publishing Co. All Rights Reserved. To license content, please contact licenses [at] americanheritage.com.

AMERICAN HERITAGE
Trusted Writing on History, Travel, and American Culture Since 1949