1795-Jan.: Officials in Norfolk, Virginia, met to discuss the “peculiar situation” caused by the frequent migrations of people of color from the Caribbean.

1795-Jan.: Officials in Norfolk, Virginia, met to discuss the “peculiar situation” caused by the frequent migrations of people of color from the Caribbean. Strong sentiment existed for mass deportations as authorities refused landing rights to vessels carrying “French Negroes” from the eastern islands. White residents in the countryside expressed alarm at the presence of “divers free negroes” who were seen “ranging at large” and disrupting social order. Although the Virginia legislature did not pass a formal ban like its neighbors, the local response was characterized by high levels of racial paranoia. These fears underscored the perceived threat posed by mobile black individuals who could facilitate the spread of radical ideas.