Everyday forms of resistance

Definition

Everyday forms of resistance refer to the subtle, often informal actions taken by oppressed individuals to resist and undermine oppressive systems without engaging in outright rebellion. These acts can include small acts of defiance, such as feigning compliance, sabotaging work, or creating cultural expressions that challenge dominant narratives. They reflect the resilience and agency of marginalized groups, particularly in contexts where open rebellion might be too dangerous or unlikely to succeed.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Everyday forms of resistance were particularly common among enslaved people who had limited means to oppose their oppressors directly.
2. These acts could be as simple as working slowly, breaking tools, or even telling jokes that mocked overseers and the system of slavery.
3. While often overlooked, everyday resistance played a critical role in maintaining a sense of dignity and autonomy among oppressed individuals.
4. This type of resistance created a culture of resilience that could inspire larger movements for change when conditions became more favorable.
5. Scholars emphasize that these subtle acts can be just as impactful as more visible forms of rebellion, as they contribute to a broader culture of resistance.

Review Questions

• How did everyday forms of resistance manifest among enslaved people during the Trans-Atlantic slave trade?
  • Everyday forms of resistance among enslaved people included acts like feigning illness, working slowly, breaking tools, and sabotaging production. These small yet significant actions allowed enslaved individuals to assert some control over their lives and challenge the authority of their masters without risking severe punishment. Such forms of resistance were crucial in maintaining their dignity and sense of identity during a time when overt rebellion was often met with brutal repercussions.
• Discuss the significance of everyday forms of resistance in shaping the experiences and identities of enslaved women.
  • For enslaved women, everyday forms of resistance took on unique meanings as they navigated both racial oppression and gender-based violence. Acts such as preserving cultural traditions, engaging in community networks for support, and using subtle defiance in domestic roles were vital for building resilience and solidarity among women. These actions not only helped them cope with their circumstances but also fostered a collective identity that challenged the dominant narratives surrounding slavery and femininity.
• Evaluate the impact of everyday forms of resistance on larger social movements against slavery and oppression.
  • Everyday forms of resistance laid the groundwork for larger social movements by fostering a culture of dissent that inspired future generations. As individuals engaged in subtle defiance, they helped create networks of support and solidarity that could be mobilized during more organized efforts against slavery. The cumulative effect of these small acts demonstrated the ongoing struggle for autonomy and dignity, ultimately contributing to the climate necessary for more overt rebellions and abolitionist movements to take root and gain momentum.

Related terms

Passive resistance: A non-violent approach to resisting authority, where individuals refuse to comply with certain laws or demands without engaging in active confrontation.

Cultural resistance: The use of cultural expressions, such as music, art, and storytelling, as a means of challenging and subverting dominant power structures.

Subversion: The act of undermining the authority or power of an institution or system, often through covert or indirect means.