Much of the history of the relationship between the European powers and Africa is one of rape, pillage, and plunder. This was not always the case, however. The Portuguese explorer Diogo Cao reached the mouth of the Congo River in 1483. Diplomatic and commercial relations were established shortly thereafter. The Africans encountered by the Portuguese were considered primitive to be sure, but not less than human (as they would come to be seen by many Europeans). Despite this relationship, the interest of the European powers quickly turned towards the slave trade.
The notorious Rum Triangle, best represented the trade which took place between the European colonies in the Americas and Africa. Slaves were brought from Africa to the West Indies where they were traded for molasses. This molasses was brought north to New England where it was traded for rum that was being distilled in the New England colonies. The rum was then sent across the Atlantic where it was traded for more......

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Title: Congo
Approximate Word Count: 1282
Approximate Pages: 6 (250 words per double-spaced page)

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