3 African scholars who were abducted and enslaved in the U.S.

The infamous Trans-Atlantic slave trade is one of the most horrendous practices against black people that resulted in the displacement of many Africans.

The trade transported between 12-15 million people from Africa to work on plantations in the Americas. The slave trade began in the 15th century after the Portuguese started their exploration of the West Coast of Africa.

As the demand for slaves in Europe increased, the trade was intensified as chiefs and traders engaged in warfare and raids which led to the capture and enslavement of many people.

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People of varied statuses including royals and scholars were captured and sold into slavery during such raids. Among such prominent people are these African scholars who remained dedicated to their Islamic faith despite being enslaved.