Comprehension Passage: The 1763 Monument and the Berbice Slave Rebellion

In the heart of Georgetown, Guyana, stands a significant monument known as the 1763 Monument. This monument is dedicated to the memory of a pivotal event in Guyana’s history – the Berbice Slave Rebellion of 1763.The Berbice Slave Rebellion was a courageous uprising led by enslaved Africans against their Dutch colonial masters. The main leader of this rebellion was a brave man named Cuffy, also known as Coffy, Kofi, or Koffi. The slaves rebelled because they were tired of the inhumane treatment they received on the plantations. They were subjected to harsh conditions, physical abuse, and denial of basic human rights.The rebellion lasted for more than a year, showcasing the determination and resilience of the enslaved people. Although the rebellion ultimately failed to achieve its goal of freedom, it marked a significant milestone in the fight against slavery.To commemorate this important event and to honor the memory of those who fought for their freedom, the 1763 Monument was erected. The monument was designed by Philip Alphonso Moore, a talented artist from Guyana. It was cast at the Morris Singer Foundry in Basingstoke, England, and unveiled on May 23, 1976, to mark the 10th anniversary of Guyana’s independence.The monument is located in D’Urban Park, Georgetown, and features a striking design. It includes figures of slaves breaking free from their chains, symbolizing their struggle for freedom. At the base of the monument, there are sculptures of a pig and a dog, which represent greed, lust, and ignorance – the vices of the colonial masters.The 1763 Monument serves as a reminder of the bravery and sacrifices made by the enslaved people of Berbice and their fight for freedom. It is an important part of Guyana’s history and a symbol of the nation’s journey towards independence and self-determination.

Comprehension Questions

1. Where is the 1763 Monument located?
   • In D’Urban Park, Georgetown
2. What event does the 1763 Monument commemorate?
   • The Berbice Slave Rebellion of 1763
3. Who was the main leader of the Berbice Slave Rebellion?
   • Cuffy (Coffy, Kofi or Koffi)
4. Why did the slaves rebel in 1763?
   • Because they were tired of the inhumane treatment by their colonial masters
5. How long did the Berbice Slave Rebellion last?
   • More than a year
6. Who designed the 1763 Monument?
   • Philip Alphonso Moore
7. Where was the 1763 Monument cast?
   • At the Morris Singer Foundry in Basingstoke, England
8. What do the pig and dog in the 1763 Monument represent?
   • Greed, lust, and ignorance
9. When was the 1763 Monument unveiled?
   • On May 23, 1976