Slavery exists in many different forms around the world. Many people can argue that slaves have been the backbone of the economy since the beginning of time. I will first discuss the treatment of slaves in ancient Rome. I will then compare this to their treatment today.
Slaves in Ancient Rome.
In ancient Rome, more specifically Athens and Sparta, slaves were very common. Slaves came from "barbarian" countries such as Thrace, The coastline of the black sea, Asia Minor, and the Levant. Some were war prisoners and others victims of professional kidnappers. For the most part their slaves were treated well. In a household a slaves was considered a part of the family. Slaves in this time were allowed a surprising amount of liberty. Some slaves were able to buy their freedom after saving enough to do so. Slaves were not allowed to: get married, have a last name, own land, attend festivals, could not take part in politics, and were denied some civil rights. Slave work ranged from the light domestic work, to the heavy work in the mines. When slave began to outnumber the citizens, there was always the potential for revolt. Cities began to maintain a constant army.
Slaves Today.
Slaves today have two main differences than slaves in the past. Slaves today are cheap and they are disposable. Millions of economically and socially vulnerable people around the world are potential slaves. This "supply" makes slaves today much cheaper than they have ever been. An average slave in American South in 1850 cost the equivalent of $40,000 in today's money, while today a slaves cost an average of $90. Since they are so cheap, slaves are no longer a major investment worth maintaining. If slaves get ill, are injured, outlive their usefulness, or become troublesome to the slaveholder, they are dumped or killed. Slaves exist all over the world ever thought its illegal everywhere. Most slaves are forced to work in agriculture, mining, and prostitution.
