The common belief of slaves in spirits is linked to the:

A) Muslim concept of the afterlife
B) Stories told by masters to frighten slaves into submission
C) African concept of the living dead
D) Idea that God would deliver the slaves from bondage

The belief in spirits among slaves can be traced back to their African origins and the concept of the living dead. In many African cultures, the dead are believed to continue to have an active presence in the world and are able to influence the living. This belief was brought over to the Americas with the slaves and helped them cope with their difficult lives by providing a sense of connection to their ancestors and a belief in a spiritual world beyond their physical existence.