New York City's Black Population in 1712: ~18% Enslaved

In 1712, enslaved Black and Indigenous people constituted approximately 18% of New York City's population.

Context

• Total population: ~6,000–7,000
• Enslaved Africans: ~1,000–1,100
• Enslaved Indigenous (Lenape, others): smaller number
• Legal framework: 1702 "Act for Regulating Slaves" restricted movement, assembly, trade

Significance

This demographic reality fueled the 1712 New York Slave Revolt (April 6), where 20+ enslaved Africans set fire to a building, killed 9 whites, injured 6. Brutal suppression followed: 21 executed (burned, broken on wheel, hanged), 6 suicides, dozens transported. Laws tightened further (1713).

By 1741, enslaved population reached ~20%—precipitating the "Great Negro Plot" hysteria.

NYC was the largest urban enslaved population in the North throughout the colonial era.