How Do You Spell KROOMEN?

1. Kroomen is a term that refers to the native African sailors or labourers who were typically recruited to work on slave ships or merchant vessels during the 18th and 19th centuries. Originally from the region around modern-day Sierra Leone, the Kroomen were known for their exceptional skills in maritime activities and were highly sought after by European ship captains.

   These individuals possessed extensive knowledge of the treacherous waters along the West African coast and were valued for their expertise in handling ships, navigating through difficult conditions, and proficiently performing various tasks on board. Kroomen were often employed for their strength and agility in physically demanding roles, such as working in the ship's rigging or as rowers on boats.

   Due to their familiarity with the African coast, Kroomen were particularly useful in assisting with the capture, transfer, and transportation of enslaved Africans during the transatlantic slave trade. Their presence on slave ships helped navigate the volatile waters and ensured the successful transport of human cargo across the Atlantic.

   Moreover, Kroomen were also often employed as servants or temporary laborers in European settlements along the West African coast. Their services ranged from domestic chores to manual labor, providing support in various industries such as trade, construction, and agriculture.

   The term "Kroomen" originates from the name of a locality in Sierra Leone called Kroo or Kru, where many of these skilled sailors hailed from. It has become a somewhat archaic term in contemporary usage, primarily used within historical contexts, particularly when referring to the involvement of Africans in the European maritime industry during the era of slavery and colonialism.

2. Labourers employed in boats and vessels at Sierra Leone-originally from the Kroo country.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for KROOMEN

The word "Kroomen" has its origins in the West African language of Efik, which is spoken by the Efik people primarily in southeastern Nigeria. In Efik, the term "Ekpwe" means canoe men or boatmen, and it later evolved to "Kroomen" when the British encountered and interacted with these West African boatmen during the colonial era.

The British frequently employed Kroomen as sailors, dockworkers, and seamen on ships sailing along the West African coast. The term "Kroomen" spread within the British maritime community and became associated with these skilled African sailors. Later on, Kroomen were also hired by European explorers during expeditions into Africa.

Over time, the word "Kroomen" became a common term to refer to West African boatmen in general, regardless of their ethnic or linguistic background.