Urban Life

One question that I’ve been thinking a lot about is how did Philip Schuyler treat his slaves?

Even though today most people agree slavery to be a moral abomination, it’s hard to argue that back in the day that all slave holders treated their slaves badly. Most probably were compassionate, good people, living in the norms of the era for wealthy landowners.

Indeed there was powerful incentives to treat slaves well just like any other employee today.

• Employees who feel respected and well cared for work harder and do a honest day’s work
• Healthy foods and good living conditions prolong life and working years
• Good housing keeps workers safe, dry and ready to put in a good days work either in the field or the homestead
• Good health care ensures people aren’t coming to work sick
• Good working conditions keep people on the job longer, discourage employees from seeking work elsewhere

I have my doubts that a well respected man like Philip Schuyler would have treated his slaves or employees badly or unfairly. Obviously if he did abuse his slaves or other employees then it should be part of his legacy, something to consider when thinking about the man.

I don’t think it’s right to hold people to today’s standards for yesterday’s accepted norms. That said if he was abusive or engaged in acts not acceptable in those days then that should be considered when looking at his legacy.