"Could someone write these paragraphs and then try to claim they not only WEREN’T RACIST but didn’t think slavery had been in the best interests of the slaves?"

Yes.

Historians write about much worse things and try to evaluate the past with an understanding as to the mindest of the individuals who participated in such.

You do not seriously believe that ALL those who participate in the practice of slavery today as it exists in Africa or the middle east - truly believe THEY think they are evil or racists do you?

No the mindset which can accept slavery, often sees only the benefits. Many slaves would starve and die in other parts of the world, without their "job" as a slave.

Does this legitimize slavery? Of course not. Does this make me an advocate of slavery for pointing it out? Of course not.

If you have read many old books, as I have, and have a collection which dates back centuries, you will see and read much the educational texts of the day put forth regarding racial types and attributes. Racism as a self-conscious concept and practice didn't even exist until the late nineteenth century.

You will see the evolving view which America held towards slavery and slaves - and one can see how Mark Twain and others of his era only were beginning to see the evil of slavery as it existed.

You make to great a leap in assuming that one person's "evil" is universally understood and has been for ages.

One thing I have learned is never to assume that everyone sees out of the same eyes in the same way.

Also your defense of the tribes in Africa as being adapted to their environment is weak. If so, is slavery or murder without remorse also uniquely adapted to their environment?

Are you trying to say clothing is not needed or beneficial in Africa? C'mon please, do not insult my intelligence.

Look at some of these withered folks, to whom old age is 40, and you are trying to tell me they do not need sunscreen or umbrellas or shoes?

You are a classic victim of PC-think in which you must make all things African noble and perfect.

Many African tribes have cultures which are developmentally arrested and stagnant.

To paint their situations as the result of "perfect" adaptations to environment is as Tom might say a load of "horse manure".

Yes humanity IS evolving.

Not all humans are equal in development, this varying development transcends all races and genotypes.

To believe otherwise is part of that unrealistic overcompensation to previous racial grading and pidgeonholing.

No one does anyone a favor by painting African culture in a Pollyannish manor - just as seeing it only in terms of negatives is equally of no benefit.

Progress is best made by seeing ALL things in balance.

Best wishes,

SDAI-Tech1