2.15 Maroon Societies & Autonomous Black Communities

LO1: Describe the characteristics of maroon communities and the areas where they emerged across the African diaspora

EK3: African Americans formed maroon

communities in areas such as the Great

Dismal Swamp (between Virginia and North

Carolina) and within Indigenous communities.

EK1: Maroon communities emerged throughout

the African diaspora, often in remote and

hidden environments beyond the purview of

enslavers. Some communities lasted for just

a few years, while others continued for a full

century.

LO1

EK4: Maroon communities* emerged beyond the

United States and were called palenques in

Spanish America and quilombos in Brazil. The

Quilombo dos Palmares, the largest maroon

society in Brazil, lasted nearly 100 years.

EK2: Maroon communities consisted of self-

emancipated people and those born free in

the community. They created autonomous

spaces where African-based languages and

cultural practices blended and flourished,

even as maroons faced illness, starvation, and

the constant threat of capture.

LO2: Describe the purpose and impact of maroon wars throughout the African diaspora

LO2

EK1: Maroon leaders and their militias often

staged wars (as distinct from slave revolts)

against colonial governments to protect their

collective freedom and autonomy. Others

made treaties with colonial governments that

required them to assist in extinguishing slave

rebellions.

• Bayano led a maroon community in wars against the Spanish for several years in Panama in the sixteenth century.

• Queen Nanny led maroons in Jamaica in the wars against the English in the eighteenth century.

Maroon Wars

Part 1: Origins of Maroon Communities

Part 1: Origins and Formation of Maroon Communities

In 1655, the English wrested control of most of the Colony of Jamaica from the Spanish colonists.

After the Spanish departure, previously enslaved Africans joined the population and other escapees to form the Windward Maroon communities in the Blue Mountains.

The white population on the island surged initially but declined significantly, leaving a majority of enslaved people and very few white settlers.

The Maroons held sway over rugged interior regions that British forces couldn’t fully control.

In 1673, a revolt of 200 slaves in St. Ann Parish led to the formation of the Leeward Maroons.

a revolt of 400 slaves at Sutton’s plantation in 1690 further strengthened the Leeward Maroons.

Maroon Wars

First Maroon Wars (1728-1740)

Part 2: The First Maroon War (1728-1740)

The Maroons fiercely resisted British colonial rule, fighting for their autonomy and freedom.

Their mountainous strongholds provided strategic advantages.

The conflict culminated in peace treaties in 1739 and 1740.

The British government acknowledged the Maroons’ autonomy and offered peace terms.

The Maroons retained their mountain communities, securing a hard-fought victory.

Maroon Wars

Part 3: Legacy and Impact

(1728-1740)

Part 3: Legacy and Impact

The Maroon Wars left an lasting mark on Jamaican history

Their resilience and resourcefulness continue to inspire generations.

Maroon culture, music, and traditions persist in Jamaica.

Maroon Wars

Second Maroon War

(1795-1796)

About half a century later, the Second Maroon War erupted, reflecting ongoing struggles.

The Maroons’ legacy endures as a testament to the human spirit’s quest for freedom.

Remember, the Maroon Wars exemplify courage, determination, and the unwavering pursuit of liberty.

Part 4: Second Maroon War