Why do you think the white sailor was killed and how did this episode add to equiano's fear?

The white sailor was killed likely due to the escalating tensions and brutal conditions aboard the slave ship, reflecting the violent atmosphere of the transatlantic slave trade. This episode heightened Equiano's fear by illustrating the unpredictable nature of life at sea, where violence could erupt at any moment, further emphasizing the vulnerability of enslaved individuals. It reinforced his awareness of the constant threat to life and safety in such a brutal environment.