Lesson 17 of 84 · Decolonization
⭐ 30 XPIndentured Servants and Enslaved People
The systems of indentured servitude and slavery were significant components of the colonial labor force.
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The systems of indentured servitude and slavery were significant components of the colonial labor force. Indentured servants, primarily European immigrants, entered contracts to work for a specified number of years in exchange for passage to America and the promise of land or money upon completion of their servitude. In contrast, enslaved people, who were predominantly of African descent, were forced into lifelong labor with no rights or compensation. These systems created deep social and economic disparities and laid the groundwork for systemic racial inequalities that would persist long after the colonial period.
Key Facts
Indentured servants worked for a set number of years for passage to America.
Enslaved people faced lifelong labor without rights or compensation.
Both systems contributed to social and economic disparities in colonial society.
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1 of 2What was the promise made to indentured servants after their term of service?
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