Odd though related question for you world history buffs....

[OneGrassRoot]

I'm working on a project that involves the Atlantic slave trade, specifically back in the 1700s.

I realize slavery is an ancient practice, and that is still occurs in modern times as well.

But here is my specific question and what I'm on a quest regarding at present:

Are there any particular modern companies who, in their past (even a past incarnation, i.e. they were in times past known as another company and through the decades and centuries are now known as another multinational corporation) were actively involved or directly benefitted from the slave trade?

Obviously, I'm most interested in US companies who had - and still have - a vested interest in repressing the masses and taking advantage of the lower classes. We all know the power and money is, and for ages has been, held by a small percentage of persons/families/corporations/organizations. But I'm looking for specific historical evidence of corporate-slave involvement and how it ties in to modern Corporate America.

Hope that made sense. Many thanks in advance to all you brilliant people! :yourock:

[MonkeyFunk]

1. Here's an article

discussing a lawsuit over that very issue:

http://thescotsman.scotsman.com/index.cfm?id=332022002

[OneGrassRoot]

2. OMG, I love you! Thanks! :) n/t