Rare photo of what the Christmas celebration looked like in Badagry in 1923 during the slave trade.

The history of Africa cannot be told without the inclusion of the slave trade and the effect it had on the continent. On December 25 most Christians celebrated the birth of Christ which is called Christmas. However, several decades ago, some people were not opportune to enjoy the day. We have gathered a photo of some people who were reportedly slaves alongside their masters in Badagry on Christmas day in 1923. In the picture, some people who appeared to be white slave masters were comfortably seated as they were surrounded by slaves who had "1923 Badagry Merry Xmas" painted on their bodies. See the photo below:  

In a single shot, we see the depths of the subjugation and disrespect shown to men and boys from what is now modern-day Nigeria. These men were deemed to be no better than paper and used as such to communicate a festive message.

As expected, the photo rubbed a number of people the wrong way seeing as it illustrated the inhumane things some people suffered during the slave era. They took to their handles to share their opinions. Some believed the photo is racist while others are of the opinion that the photo is fake and was put together by mischievous people.  

According to reports, slavery started in the 15th century after Europeans decided to explore Africa's hinterland. The first explorers were the Portuguese, the British, and the French. They initially traded in raw materials and foodstuffs but they eventually started to capture and export humans. These slaves were gotten from some African rulers, kidnappers, or warriors. Initially, only prisoners of war were sold off as slaves but the high demand for them by Europeans led to the capture of even free folks. Despite the fact that slavery officially ended several years ago, it is still not totally over.