Maroon

Definition

A person who escaped slavery, or a member of a community founded by such people, especially in the Caribbean and the Americas. Maroon communities often formed in remote or difficult terrain, and some lasted for many years with their own farming, trade and defence. Colonial governments sometimes fought them and sometimes negotiated treaties, which shows they were taken seriously as political powers. See also: quilombo, resistance, and the guide Resistance and Rebellion in the Atlantic World.