Las Siete Partidas

Question 1

In Spanish Slave Laws

Answer 1

the enslaved African was regarded as a person as well as property. The laws, therefore, offered him protection against unwarranted assault or punishment. The Spanish recognised that freedom was a die natural state of man and so the slaves had a right to seek their freedom.

Question 2

Provisions of Siete Partidas with respect to manumission.

Answer 2

1. a slave master could lose his property in the slave if the slave was maltreated.
2. slaves could be compulsorily manumitted for certain kinds of abuse e.g. prostitution
3. slaves who claimed freedom were to have their cases heard by audencias (the court)
4. when slaves of mixed blood were sold, fathers if wiling could be allowed to buy them and free them
5. slaves were able to buy freedom in installments. Remained planters property till installments all paid

Question 3

Provisions with respect to slaves’ rights

Answer 3

1. If treated inhumanely, had the right to take a complaint to the courts
2. right to marry with or without owner’s consent
3. right to be taught religion. baptised and instructed in Christian faith.
4. plantation slaves had the right to be free on sundays and holy days
5. right to buy freedom with or without owner’s consent
6. right to be provided with food, clothing and shelter