During the 400 years of the Trans-Atlantic slave trade, many of the kidnapped African people who were forced to board ships to go to the Americas did not see land again. Millions died due to a lack of sanitation and overpacking of the ships by the enslavers. Many died of diseases, shock, or committed suicide. Many were thrown overboard because of being sick or disciplined. The Atlantic Ocean became an African American burial ground. This collection honors the heroes who fought and sacrificed their lives.