The term "white slavery" is often spelled with a silent "h" in the word "white." This spelling is a relic of the Old English spelling of "hwite" with a pronounced "h." In IPA phonetic transcription, "white" is pronounced /waɪt/, while "slavery" is pronounced /ˈsleɪ.və.ri/. The term "white slavery" is used to refer to the forced prostitution and exploitation of white women, and should not be confused with the historical enslavement of African people. The use of the term "white slavery" is controversial and considered offensive by some.
"White slavery" is a term that historically referred to the coerced or forced prostitution and trafficking of white women and girls. It emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, primarily in Europe and the United States. The term was used to describe the practice of kidnapping or tricking young women, often from lower socio-economic backgrounds, into sexual exploitation and servitude.
The victims of white slavery were typically taken against their will and transported to various locations, including brothels or other locations where they were forced into prostitution or held captive. Criminal organizations or individuals involved in the trafficking would exploit these women by subjecting them to physical and emotional abuse, withholding their freedom, and deriving economic gain through their sexual exploitation.
The use of the term "white slavery" generally invoked racial and societal anxieties, as it drew attention to the vulnerability of white women, raising fears among the public. It fueled discussions and campaigns for the protection of women and the need for stricter laws against trafficking. Over time, the term has evolved and the phenomenon it refers to is now commonly known as human trafficking or sex trafficking.
It is important to note that the term "white slavery" is now considered outdated, as modern understanding acknowledges that human trafficking affects individuals of all genders, races, and backgrounds.
The term "white slavery" originated in the late 19th century and early 20th century. Its etymology is derived from the words "white" referring to the skin color, and "slavery" indicating forced labor or sexual exploitation.
The term initially emerged in the United States, particularly during the Progressive Era, as a moral panic and sensationalized narrative focusing on the prostitution and trafficking of white women. It was used to describe the alleged kidnapping and sexual exploitation of young, unmarried women who were deemed to be vulnerable and innocent.
During this period, there was a growing concern about the migration of women from rural to urban areas, where they were believed to be at risk of falling into prostitution and becoming victims of human trafficking. The term "white slavery" was employed to emphasize the racial and moral dimensions, projecting the idea that even white women were not immune to these dangers.