European interest in the African continent first began with Portuguese explorers in the 15th and 16th centuries. The purpose of this exploration was threefold. First, Portuguese explorers wanted to expand European knowledge of the world and geography. Second, these explorers wanted to find natural resources (e.g. ivory and gold). Finally, these explorers tried to locate a sea route to valuable trade routes in Asia that would evade the taxes and duties collected by the Arab and Ottoman empires. The Portuguese first established ports along the western coast of Africa, which enabled them to restock supplies before continuing to the Indian Ocean. They were also the first to become engaged in the African slave trade. Other European countries soon followed the Portuguese.

Prior to European arrival, slavery did exist on the African continent. However, slavery at this time was more like European serfdom. In addition, slaves could marry, own property, and even purchase other slaves. Slavery also ended after a certain period of servitude or if the owner died. African slavery also did not involve generations of families (i.e., generation after generation of families were not enslaved). African slavery differed drastically from the form of slavery that developed in the Americas and elsewhere.