Manilla - Slave Currency

This reproduction bronze manilla is a striking piece of history, reflecting the complex and often troubling trade practices of the past. Used primarily by European slave traders as currency in the transatlantic slave trade, the manilla was a form of metal money used in trade, particularly in West Africa, during the 16th to 19th centuries.

• Dimensions: Approx. 7.5cm wide.
• Material: Bronze, crafted to replicate the original items used in trade.
• Design: The manilla features a curved shape with a flat, open-ended design, characteristic of the currency used in historical African trade.

Historical Context:
Manillas were a form of currency used in trade between European traders and various African kingdoms, especially during the transatlantic slave trade. The currency, often crafted from copper, bronze, or brass, was used for trading goods, including people, as well as commodities like ivory, gold, and textiles. Manillas were highly prized in the African trade networks and came in various shapes and sizes.

The manilla's association with the slave trade is particularly significant, as it was used to purchase slaves who were transported across the Atlantic. These metal bands were also used in ceremonial and cultural exchanges, but their association with the exploitation and suffering of enslaved peoples has made them a somber reminder of this dark chapter in history.

Educational Notes:

• Slavery: Manillas are a poignant symbol of the transatlantic slave trade, an inhumane system that forcibly transported millions of Africans to the Americas over several centuries.
• Trade: The manilla can be used to teach about historical trade networks, the economic systems that supported the slave trade, and the historical interactions between Europe and Africa.
• Cultural Significance: Manillas were not just currency; they were also important in African rituals and ceremonial exchanges, illustrating the complex nature of these items within the cultures of both Africa and Europe.

This reproduction serves as an important tool for understanding the economics of the slave trade and offers an educational resource for discussions on history, economics, and human rights