Slavery in antiquity refers to the historical institution of owning and exploiting individuals as slaves in civilizations of the ancient world, prior to the medieval era or the modern transatlantic slave trade.
During this period, slavery was an integral part of the social, economic, and political systems of numerous societies, spanning from Mesopotamia, Egypt, Greece, and Rome to other ancient civilizations. Slavery in antiquity involved the ownership and control of individuals who were considered property, lacking personal rights, and subject to forced labor and servitude. These individuals, often captured prisoners of war, debtors, or individuals born into slavery, were bought, sold, or inherited like any other form of property.
The conditions of slavery varied across different ancient societies, ranging from relatively humane treatment to severe exploitation and abuse. Slaves were employed in a wide range of tasks, such as domestic work, agriculture, mining, construction, and as concubines or gladiators. They had limited legal rights, were often subject to harsh punishments, and had no control over their lives or freedom.
The abolition of slavery in antiquity occurred gradually and was not a result of a single transformative event. Over time, changes in economic systems, religious beliefs, social movements, and political ideologies played a role in challenging and eventually dismantling the institution. Slavery in antiquity remains a significant aspect of studying the social and cultural history of ancient societies, as it shaped the dynamics, power structures, and moral values of those times.
