Slavery 1st Flashcards
What was the nature of slavery in West Africa before European traders?
Slavery was part of everyday life in African society long before European traders arrived.
How long has slavery existed in Africa?
Slavery has existed for over 3,500 years, with Egyptians using slaves to build pyramids.
What roles did slaves serve in royal households?
Some slaves served as officials and servants in royal households, such as in Mansa Musa’s palace.
What was the impact of slavery on the population of Mali between 1235 and 1645?
About one third of the population of Mali had been enslaved during this period.
Who owned land in West Africa and what was the role of slaves?
Land was owned by the community, and many slaves were needed to work the farms.
What were some sources of slaves for West African tribes?
Slaves were obtained through raids on towns and from captives of wars against each other.
Why was having slaves important in West African society?
Slaves provided cheap labor, status, and became symbols of wealth.
What rights did most slaves have before the 1600s?
Most slaves could marry, inherit from their owners, and have their own slaves.
When were slaves first taken to America?
Slaves were taken to America only after the 1600s.
How were slaves treated in America?
They were treated very badly because slavery was very profitable, considered ‘big business.’
What are home slaves?
Home slaves worked in the homes of owners, could make money, and could acquire possessions for their families.
What are pledged slaves?
Pledged slaves were used as pledges for debts, exchanging labor for their debt.
What are criminal slaves?
Criminal slaves were people who committed a crime and instead of going to jail, they became slaves.
What are military slaves?
Military slaves were owned by the government or war chief and were sent to make war and return with loot.
