CHAPTER XVI.

THE COLONY OF MARYLAND.

1634-1775.

Maryland under the Laws of Virginia until 1630.--First Legislation on the Slavery Question in 1637-38--Slavery established by Statute in 1663--The Discussion of Slavery.--An Act passed encouraging the Importation of Negroes and White Slaves in 1671.--An Act laying an Impost on Negroes and White Servants imported into the Colony.--Duties imposed on Rum and Wine.--Treatment of Slaves and Papists.--Convicts imported into the Colony--An Attempt to justify the Convict-Trade.--Spirited Replies.--The Laws of 1723, 1729, 1752.--Rights of Slaves--Negro Population in 1728.--Increase of Slavery in 1750--No Efforts made to prevent the Evils of Slavery.--The Revolution nearing.--New Life for the Negroes. 238