The primary cause of death refers to the main reason or factor that resulted in the loss of life.
Related terms
Disease: Illnesses such as smallpox, dysentery, and malaria were common on slave ships during the Middle Passage, contributing to high mortality rates among slaves.
Malnutrition: Slaves were often given insufficient food and water during their voyage across the Atlantic Ocean, leading to malnutrition and weakened immune systems.
Brutality: The mistreatment and violence inflicted upon slaves by ship crew members also contributed to deaths during the Middle Passage.