Discuss why an African Burial Ground exists in New York, rather than simply a burial ground (i.e., for all deceased persons.) (E
xplain what this suggests about the state of race relations at this early point in New Amsterdam/ New York.) Identify the two colonies which had the most African slaves at the start of the American Revolution. Mention when this African Burial Ground finally fell into disuse by the population and what happened to it after this period. Discuss how many Africans were disinterred and then reinterred at this African Burial Ground, as you mention how and when their remains were discovered in the first place. Discuss some of the activities that occurred to convert the site into a National Monument. Explain why you think the African Burial Ground is either important or unimportant as a national monument in the United States.
In 1697, Africans were not allowed to bury their dead in what had become New York's primary burial ground. Scholars believe that this ban was the reason Africans used the burial ground today recognized as the African Burial Ground National Monument.
In the US Constitution we see the principle of popular sovereignty embodied and expressed. It is one of the most important ideas of Enlightenment. Sovereignty lies with the people, not in an absolute monarch claiming to rule by divine right. It is up to the people to decide who should rule them.
