1642-1807: The slave trade out of Recife, the chief port of Pernambuco, was the first Brazil-based traffic to commence and served as a major base for Dutch s…

1642-1807: The slave trade out of Recife, the chief port of Pernambuco, was the first Brazil-based traffic to commence and served as a major base for Dutch slaving operations during their occupation of the region between 1630 and 1654. West Central Africa remained the consistent and primary source of African captives for this colony throughout the entire period of the trade. While focusing on the southern system, Pernambuco merchants also traded for captives from West Africa by utilizing unique rolls of locally grown tobacco. These vessels were typically locally owned, financed, and outfitted, creating a direct economic link between the Brazilian northeast and the African coast.