Why was severe an appropriate name for the overseer?

Severe was appropriate because it described their behavior. They were strict, cruel, ruthless, and severe to the slaves. If the slaves were tired or couldn't work or were perceived as problematic in any way, they would get flogged or severely beaten or even killed without any regard for them or for others in general.

That president would be none other than president warren g harding , return to say of life before wwi