"Life Insurance and Slavery: The Dark History of Profit and Human Commodification" by Elvin Lee Blake Thompson is a revealing exploration of the disturbing intersection between the financial industry and the transatlantic slave trade. This meticulously researched work uncovers how several prominent American insurance companies played a pivotal role in perpetuating and profiting from the institution of slavery by insuring the lives of enslaved individuals and the ships that transported them.

Through detailed historical analysis, Thompson highlights the involvement of companies such as Aetna, New York Life, and others in providing financial safety nets to slave owners, treating human lives as insurable property. These insurance policies not only mitigated the financial risks for slave owners but also reinforced the economic structure of slavery, commodifying and dehumanizing millions of individuals.

The book delves into the mechanisms of profit that these companies exploited, from premium payments and underwriting fees to claims management and investment returns. Thompson also examines the modern implications of these historical practices, including the apologies issued by some companies and the ongoing discussions about corporate responsibility and reparations.

"Life Insurance and Slavery" is a critical and timely work that sheds light on a lesser-known aspect of American history. Thompson’s thorough research and compelling narrative provide a powerful reminder of how deeply financial institutions were entwined with the institution of slavery and the enduring impact of this legacy on contemporary society. This book is essential for those interested in understanding the full scope of slavery’s economic dimensions and the continuing quest for justice and reconciliation.