Why Do People Talk about White Slavery When It Wasn't After America's Existence?

There is a common misunderstanding that white slavery only occurred after the existence of America. However, this is not accurate. White slavery has a long and significant history that predates the formation of the United States. This article aims to clarify the prevalence and impact of white slavery, and why it is crucial to include it in the study of chattel slavery.

The Berbery Wars and White Slavery

The Berbery Wars were a series of conflicts that began in the 17th century and continued into the 19th century. These wars were fueled by the trading of white Christian enslaved people by Islamists, professional slavers, kidnappers, pirates, and terrorists. This historical context reveals that white slavery was a widespread and well-documented phenomenon, not limited to any specific region or period.

Similar to the enslaved population during the notorious Berbery Wars, white slaves also faced significant challenges. If they converted to Islam, they might gain freedom, but this was often a choice made out of survival rather than belief. Additionally, enslavement could pass through generations, even after conversion. This practice involved a staggering number of white individuals, who often found themselves in various forms of indentured servitude, sexual exploitation, and hard labor.

History and Scale of White Slavery

White slavery is a part of a larger historical context that includes the enslavement of white cultures and ethnicities by ancient civilizations such as the Greeks and Romans. During the Greek and Roman eras, white prisoners of war from diverse cultures were captured and enslaved. These white laborers could be used for various purposes, ranging from domestic service to agricultural work. Xenophobia and innate prejudices against non-Greeks or non-Romans played a significant role in the treatment of these individuals.

Representation in Literature and Art

The experiences of white enslaved individuals, such as the author Cervantes, have left a lasting impact on literature and art. Cervantes, who was himself an enslaved person and later wrote the renowned novel Don Quixote, used his traumatic experiences to inform his work. In his novel, he described the brutal realities of forced labor, torture, and exploitation, which were reflections of his own life under slavery.

Chattel Slavery and Serfdom

Just as slavery was not exclusive to race, it was also not limited to white individuals. White people were also subjected to various forms of forced labor, such as serfdom and indentured servitude. This historical context highlights that chattel slavery was diverse, with various forms of coerced labor and exploitation prevalent throughout history. For instance, in Russian serfdom, many white individuals were treated as chattel. Even after the formal abolition of serfdom, transitioning to a free lifestyle remained challenging for many former slaves.

Legacy and Impact

While white slavery's legacy is less prominent in contemporary society compared to other forms of slavery, it remains a crucial part of the historical record. Scholars and researchers must delve into the history of white slavery to gain a comprehensive understanding of the complexities of chattel slavery. Omitting this aspect would be a disservice to the historical truth and could perpetuate a one-sided narrative. By discussing white slavery, we contribute to a more nuanced understanding of the historical and moral implications of slavery and human trafficking.

Conclusion

The study of white slavery is an integral part of understanding the broader history of chattel slavery. It is a topic that needs to be discussed more openly and thoroughly to ensure a comprehensive and accurate historical record. Continued research and education can help us learn from the past and work towards a more just and equitable future.