The phrase “who is the father of Meena’s baby” within the context of a “book of Negros” likely refers to genealogical research within a specific historical record. “Books of Negros” were historical registers used to document enslaved and free people of African descent, primarily in Spanish colonial territories. These records often included information such as names, ages, places of origin, and family relationships, which could be crucial in establishing lineages. Determining paternity within these records was often vital for inheritance, social standing, and sometimes freedom. Therefore, inquiries into paternity within these documents represent a crucial aspect of researching family history for individuals of African descent connected to these colonial contexts.
These records offer valuable insights into the lives and experiences of marginalized communities during periods of colonialism and enslavement. They can illuminate family structures, social networks, and resistance strategies employed by individuals and communities. While often created and maintained by colonial authorities, these documents can be reclaimed as tools for empowerment, allowing descendants to reconstruct their family histories and gain a deeper understanding of their ancestral heritage. Furthermore, they offer valuable data for historians and researchers studying the social, economic, and demographic impact of slavery and colonialism.
