Why did many slaves die during the Middle passage?

Many slaves died during the Middle Passage due to inhumane conditions aboard slave ships, where overcrowding, poor sanitation, and insufficient food and water led to the spread of disease. The brutal treatment by crew members, coupled with the psychological trauma of capture and transport, further exacerbated their suffering. Additionally, some slaves chose to resist their circumstances, leading to suicides or deaths during revolts. Overall, the combination of physical and psychological stress resulted in a high mortality rate during this horrific journey.