Although white slaveholders tried to suppress African culture (they believed slaves could be controlled more easily if they spoke only English and depended on what the slaveholders taught them), slaves created their own African American culture by combining English and Christianity with their African culture.
They recognized their African heritage, but accepted America as home. This meant they would use European methods, such as petitions, lawsuits, and organized protest, to fight for their rights.
They established mutual aid societies, churches, lodges and fraternal organizations, and educational and cultural institutions.
