Discuss the nature of, and reasons for, the social structures on plantations in either the West Indies or Brazil.

The question requires that candidates offer a considered and balanced review of the nature of and reasons for the social structures of plantations in either the West Indies or Brazil. For nature, candidates may argue that the social structure was based almost exclusively on race, defined status and power in the plantations. Candidates may discuss that lighter skinned African American slaves were higher on the social structure than darker skinned slaves. They may refer to social differences within groups such as white indentured servants or domestic servants being above African American slaves. As to reasons, candidates may argue that the imposed social structure “justified” and enforced the supremacy of Europeans in the colonies and aided in the control of both indigenous and African American peoples. Candidates’ opinions or conclusions will be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.

The question required that candidates offer a considered and balanced review of the nature of and reasons for the social structures of plantations in either the West Indies or Brazil.