short essay about slavery

Improve your Grades

Slavery Essay | Essay on Slavery for Students and Children in English

February 13, 2024 by Prasanna

Slavery Essay: Slavery, also known as enslavement, is the condition of being a slave. It is a practice where a group of people or a community of people are oppressed and are made to work as labourers without any remuneration. A slave is more of a movable property than a labourer. He doesn’t have the liberty to quit the service and is legally rendered as personal property.

In history, slavery has been an integral part of human civilisation. Slaves were exploited and oppressed by suing physical violence as the external force. The condition of being an unfree labourer or a labourer without remuneration is called de facto slavery. Slavery has been outlawed and is now illegal in the present society.

You can also find more Essay Writing articles on events, persons, sports, technology and many more.

Long and Short Essays on Slavery for Students and Kids in English

We are providing students with essay samples on a long essay of 500 words and a short essay of 150 words on the topic of Slavery.

Long Essay on Slavery 500 Words in English

Long Essay on Slavery is usually given to classes 7, 8, 9, and 10.

Slavery is a condition of being a slave. It is also known as enslavement. It is a historic practice were people one group of people is oppressed and exploited as forced labourers by another group of people. Slaves are not considered as workers but as personal property with no liberty and rights to be exercised.

The word “slave” is derived from the ethnic word “slav.” It has derived in the English terminology from the old French word, “sclave” and Latin word “sclavus.” Historians often find the use of the word “slave” and instead refer to the use of “unfree labourers” or “enslaved person.”

Some terminologies:

Bonded Labourers: This is a form of slavery where a person agrees to provide service to repay a certain debt or loan taken from a person. This is a form of unfree labour which can be passed through generations till the debt is paid. Debt bondage is most prevalent in South Asia.
Chattel slavery: This is a form of slavery where the slaves are not even considered to be humans but as the personal movable property of the slavers. The slaves, therefore, gave birth to children who were enslaved right from the beginning of their lives. The slavers also had the authority to sell and buy slaves at their will.
Forced labourer- Forced labourer, is a form of slavery where the enslaved people are forced to act as labourers under the threat of violence and other abuse. This term has a wide range of approach since, not only enslaved people but other forms of unfree labourers such as serfdom or penal labour also fall under this.

History of Slavery:

The first forms of slavery were practised with the prisoners of war. It was called “just title servitude.”

Slavery has existed in many civilisations and cultures throughout the centuries. Slavery wasn’t a practice in the early hunter-gatherer cultures, but it started to become widespread after the invention of agriculture in the Neolithic Age. The Bible also mentions slavery as an institution.

Slavery in different parts of the world:

Africa- Slavery existed in Pharaonic Egypt. However, Egyptian terminology is very vague when it comes to slavery. There were three types of slavery in Egypt, bonded labour, chattel slavery and forced labour.
Asia- In Asia, slavery was prevalent since the Shang Dynasty.
Europe- Mycenaean Green had evidence of slavery. Greek Athens also had the largest number of working slave population. In Rome, slavery was a very vital pillar of the economy.
Africa- External and internal slave trade was highly widespread in Africa. In between 1300 to 1900, more than one-third of the Senegambia population was enslaved. The Arab slave trade across the Indian ocean was one of the most notable slave trades in the world.
America- Slavery in America is a significant historical issue as several crises like the American Civil war are associated with it. Slaves in America were mostly of African origin who were traded and sold by the traders.

After the Civil Rights movement in America and other human rights movement throughout the world, slavery as a practice has been deemed illegal as it is a threat to liberty and freedom.

Short Essay on Slavery 150 Words in English

Short Essay on Slavery is usually given to classes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6.

Slavery is the practice of being a slave. It is also known as enslavement. Slavery comes from the ethic word “slav.” It came to be used in the English language through the Old French word “sclave” or the Latin word, “sclavus.”

Historians believe that slavery originated since the beginning of agriculture in ancient societies. There are different forms of slavery:

Bonded labour: Bonded labourers work to repay a certain debt to a person, and this debt has to be repaid for generations. They have no rights of their own.
Chattel slavery: Chattel slavery is the form where slaves are considered to be practically personal property. The children of slaves are also born to be slaves.
Forced Labour: It also includes other forms such as serfdom and penal labour. Here slaves are forced to work under threat of violence.

Slavery has been rampant throughout the world, especially in Africa and America. Ancient Greece and Rome also show evidence of slavery. However, slavery as a practice has been outlawed for it is a strict violation of human rights.

10 Lines on Slavery in English

Athens of Greece had a huge number of slaves.
Films have been a notable representation of slavery.
Notable films are “The birth of a nation” and “Spartacus.”
Earliest forms of slavery include slavery of the prisoners of war.
The oldest international human rights organisation, Anti-slavery International, was formed in 1839.
Anti-Slavery International formed by Joseph Sturge.
Universal Declaration of Human Rights has declared slavery as a banned practice.
Slavery was widespread in India by 6th century BC.
The large-scale slave trade also started in Japan by the Portuguese.
Even though slavery has been outlawed, the number of slaves today is estimated between 12 million to 29 million.

FAQ’s on Slavery Essay

Question 1. When did American Civil War take place?

Answer: It started on 12th April 1861.

Question 2. Who first abolished slavery?

Answer: Britain first abolished slavery in 1833.

Question 3. Which was the world’s oldest human rights organisation?

Answer: World’s oldest human rights organisation was Anti-Slavery International.

Question 4. Where was Anti-slavery international formed?

Answer: It was formed in Britain.

Picture Dictionary
English Speech
English Slogans
English Letter Writing
English Essay Writing
English Textbook Answers
Types of Certificates
ICSE Solutions
Selina ICSE Solutions
ML Aggarwal Solutions
HSSLive Plus One
HSSLive Plus Two
Kerala SSLC
Distance Education

Slavery - Essay Examples And Topic Ideas For Free

Slavery involves the ownership and forced labor of one person by another. Essays on slavery could explore its historical occurrences, the impact of slavery on contemporary racial relations, or discuss the legacies and traumas of slavery. It could also delve into the various forms of modern-day slavery and human trafficking. A vast selection of complimentary essay illustrations pertaining to Slavery you can find in Papersowl database. You can use our samples for inspiration to write your own essay, research paper, or just to explore a new topic for yourself.

What is Worse than Slavery

Worse than Slavery , by David Oshinsky tells a sensitive and graphic storyline about the South. My first impression from just looking at the book made me think, what could be worse than slavery? Is it even possible for something to be just as gruesome as slavery? To be completely honest, before reading this book, I didn't know all the ins and outs about slavery, let alone about the Parchman State Penitentiary but reading this book really opened my eyes […]

The Development of America and the Impact of Slavery

In the time that Slavery was happening before the years of the Civil War era, America had continued to develop into their own independent country from the British. Even though many factors had been involved in the growth of America, Slavery had a major role in the development of America itself. The pronounced economy, idea of liberty, and culture would develop as slavery took place in the new land. Lonnie Bunch III, director of the Smithsonian quotes, African Americans helped […]

History: the Fall of the Roman Empire

Introduction The Roman Empire is said to have crumpled when the German brutes toppled the last Emperor, Romulus Augustus in 476 and presented a more equitable type of government which was fleeting. There exist many reasons regarding the fall of the Roman Empire. Every reason seemed to be intertwined with the other. Some of those who try and explain the fall of this empire blamed the initiation of Christianity. Constantine the Great initiated Christianity in 337 AD. Some people place […]

We will write an essay sample crafted to your needs.

A History of Slavery in the United States

The number of slaves being held in the United States increased significantly during the 18th and early 19th centuries. Up to this point, slavery was primarily an institution limited to white men and few women. However, as whites became more prosperous, they began importing large numbers of free or indentured servants from Africa who were brought over as slaves for economic gain (El Hame). The public developed an increasing dislike for both these newcomers and their descendants - termed “mulattos” […]

Legacy of Slavery: from Juneteenth to Modern-Day Mass Incarceration

Some slaves new they were slaves and some didn't.Though President Abraham Lincoln put an end to slavery, slaves in Texas had no knowledge of their freedom until two and a half years later. On June 19, 1865 Union soldiers came to Galveston and declared the end of the Civil War, with General granger reading a lou a special declaration that ordered the freeing of 200,000 slaves in the state. Because of the major set back, many African Americans started a […]

The Definition of Racism

Racism has many definitions. However, in the past, people were identified by their country's geographic place, not by their skin color. This essay about the definition of racism will explore how it has changed over time. Racism can appear in many ways. The most common racism definition is that of a system of dominance, power, and privilege that is rooted in the historical oppression of subordinated groups that the dominant group views as inferior, deviant, or undesirable. The dominant group […]

How did Music Enhance the Experience of Slavery

African American slavery is remembered for its constant abuse and brutality towards African Americans. One aspect that is less known is the music. The music used during slavery and in the context of slavery enhanced the experience for both slave and slave master. Music in slavery came from different sources. There were many famous slave songs such as “Roll Jordan Roll” and “Follow The Drunkin’ Gourd”. As well as slaves who had musical talent, expressing their talent to their master […]

Sharecropping Better than Slavery

The historical fiction story Roll of Thunder hear my cry provides us with adequate information about sharecropping. It goes into detail about the poverty prevalent in sharecropping families and the struggle to escape its grasp. Take the quote, A tall, emaciated-looking boy popped suddenly from a forest trail and swung a thin arm around Stacey. It was T.J. Avery. His younger brother Claude emerged a moment later, smiling weakly as if it pained him to do so. Neither boy had […]

Jamaican Culture

The fashion industry is one which is evident in all areas in the world. In Jamaica, for instance, modern day fashion is encompassed within the ordinary dress code of people all over the country. Most of the clothes worn by people in Jamaica reflect a significant part of their cultural and religious beliefs. However, this fashion sense grows from their connection with one fashionably renowned African country, Ghana. Fashion design and contemporary wear in Jamaica is closely related to the […]

Slavery and Racism in “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn”

The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn is absolutely relating a message to readers about the ills of slavery but this is a complex matter. On the one hand, the only truly good and reliable character is Jim who, a slave, is subhuman. Also, twain wrote this book after slavery had been abolished, therefore, the fact that is significant. There are still several traces of some degree of racism in the novel, including the use of the n word and his tendency […]

Modern Slavery

Imagine stopping at the red light, you see this youthful face, standing at the corner of the street. You notice her high heels and rather skimpy clothes and you immediately and consciously register her as a streetwalker. All of a sudden, all the wrongdoings in the world and lack of character notions develop in your head pertaining to her. You see her low morals screaming loud and clear, you see the whore she is. All this thought process going on […]

The American Revolution

Role of slaves and Native Americans in the RevolutionThousands of African slaves and the Native American involvement in the fight for independence against the British colonial masters. Most of them were actively involved in the forefront of the war. They refused to stand aside and took the side of the war that they felt had an upper arm in winning and of course the one that offered better terms of their freedom when the war is won. The war was […]

The Impact of Slavery

The participation of England in the slave-trade began in the early 16th century, with the country, on par with Portugal, being the most successful in the trading business until the abolishment of Slavery in the UK in 1807. The original interest of the British traders was more-so with the produce from within Africa, such as ivory and gold, rather than the people of Africa itself. The interest shifted however when the demand for labourers increased and rich British figures became […]

Why Slavery was the Engine of American Economic Growth

America views slavery in a negative perspective. It's not very known that there were some positives aspects that benefited America's economy. From the years 1619 to 1865, slavery became very important to the South because it supported the economic side of agriculture. The slave-based economy was somewhat separate from the market revolution. If it wasn't for slavery, the North wouldn't have been able to grow when industrializing the cotton textile. Cotton textile was one of the first industrially producing businesses […]

The Reformation Evangelicalism and the British Anti-Slavery Movement

Throughout the last 500 years, there have been several great revivals of Christian evangelism, specifically with regards to human rights. Christians, particularly evangelicals, have been at the forefront of many social movements that would in the modern parlance be deemed social justice movements, such as the anti-slavery movement, Prohibition, and the broad, all encompassing poor relief of the Victorian Era. One of the most notable “ and most well documented “ of the aforementioned Christian humanitarian movements was the anti-slavery […]

The Issues of Slavery: Reflection in Literature

The age of Romanticism is characterized not only by the growth of cultural development of human society but also by the ongoing debates about the maintenance of the slave market and promotion of abolition ideas. There is much evidence that advocates on both sides of the issue relied on the moral and economic arguments for their positions. Different authors like, Mary Prince and Maria Edgeworth, take different positions on slavery because they view slavery in different ways and discuss different […]

Slave Narrative to the Black Lives Matter Movement

Black lives matter can be considered as an international movement, which has its origin in the African-American community. The primary objective of this movement is to campaign against systematic racism and violence towards the black people (Richardson, Elaine, and Alice 30). Most of these cases of violence and systematic racism were most evident among the slaves. Therefore, black lives matter movement was formed to help address some of the problems that slaves undergo. There were protests, which were held by […]

Slavery and Immigration

Life in the 16th century was tough mostly if you were a slave or servant. The world came a long way from when slave start to the end of it. It caused a bloody war where many people lost their lives, fighting for their right and believes. The North was a big attribute to this whole situation. It all started when a ship brought over 20 African slaves to America. People started noticing the New World, and they all wanted […]

What is Modern Slavery?

Many corporations today rely on the forced-employment of American prison inmates as a source of inexpensive labor. Most people believe the United States abolished slavery through the enactment of the thirteenth amendment, although this article clearly states that people can be subjugated into what would otherwise be unjust working-conditions if they have been sentenced to prison-time. The 13th Amendment states: Neither slavery nor involuntary servitude, except as a punishment for crime whereof the party shall have been duly convicted, shall […]

How did Slavery Shape Modern Society?

Slavery has never been abolished from America's way of thinking. (Nina Simone) Slavery still exist till this day, from forced labor, sex trafficking, debt bondage, child soldiers, and domestic servitude. Although slavery was abolished in 1865 in the United States, slavery continues to be a worldwide issue from forced child labor, sex trafficking, and debt bondage. Thousands of people suffer every year resulting in injury, kidnapping, and even death so the question remains does slavery still exist to this day? […]

Was Slavery the Cause of the Civil War Essay

The Civil War is a war that is taught about in every school throughout the United States of America, no matter if it’s the first grade or your senior year of college, you’ve heard about it every year in school since kindergarten in some form or another. The nation split into two parts. the Union also known as “the North” and the Confederate States of American, or just “The South”. It was a war that shaped history, the nation could […]

Making Racism Obsolete

Does racism still exist? Some would say no?, but some would agree that racism is a cut that won't heal. Molefi Kete Asante is a professor at Temple University and has written many books during his career. In this analysis I will dissect Asante's work covering racism from the past, present and the future moving forward. Asante argues that America is divided between two divisions, the Promise and the Wilderness. Historically, African Americans has been at a disadvantage politically, socially, […]

Racism and Slavery

During the colonial period, Americans came up with the idea to bring African men and women overseas and use them as slaves. The effects of slavery on African Americans were enormous, and the white men got higher ranked in the hierarchy than the back men because of the colour of their skin. In order to discuss the impact that slavery has had on today’s society, you need to first address why it actually occurred. During the 17th and 18th century, […]

Why is Slavery Wrong

Allow me to express to you why slavery was, is, and always will be wrong. Slaves went through drastic living conditions, treated as less than human, and even had no rights compared to whites during this time. Slavery is one of the foulest works of the 17th century as it is made very clear through the many novels and narratives about slavery as well as the African Americans who lived through it. Slavery should have never transpired at all and […]

Slavery in the South Vs North

Whether America is being praised or looked down upon, one indisputable fact is America has done great things. Some good and some bad, but great. It is also indisputable that every decision has made America what it is today. Especially in terms of slavery. Even though it may have been one of the most unethical practices America has ever partaken in, it is also without a doubt the most contributing factor to the foundation of the US. Back when the […]

Slavery Codes and Laws

Slavery in the American history is both clear and ambiguous. Enslaved people were property owned by white people, treated as property and traded regularly. Although this marked a tragedy in the American history, the story of slavery still affects a lot of US resident till today. With the growth of slaves' numbers there emerged the need to legalize, control and keep track of all slaves in America, thus our topic for this research paper. The Slavery Laws designed to keep […]

Racism in the United States of America

Racism is a common theme seen throughout history. Throughout history several groups of people have been affected by racism. Throughout history it hasn’t been just one group but many groups if not all have experienced it. In Contemporary Literature we explored topics of racism along with sexual assault. We learned that Racism is prejudice, discrimination, or antagonism directed against someone of a different race based on the belief that one's own race is superior;and that throughout history there have been […]

Slavery in Beloved

Modern American culture has largely forgotten about the establishment of slavery and the disturbing, psychological pain that Africans and African Americans had to endure. The history of black people in America has been filled with traumatic experiences, which has had a large impact on their personalities and their connection with themselves and others. In order to overcome the trauma of slavery requires remembering the atrocities faced by slaves rather than forgetting them. Toni Morrison's novel Beloved extends the examination […]

The Legacy of Slavery

Slavery is when one person owning another person. The effects that slavery has had on the nation is something many people still struggle to understand. A recent article by Rochelle Riley for USA Today describes slavery as America's open wound, the painful injury that a third of America lives with and the rest of the country attempts to ignore because, for them, it is an ancient scar and, well, hasn't it healed by now? Slavery has left a very noticeable […]

Frederick Douglass Slavery

In 1845 nonfiction book Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, written and told by Frederick Douglass himself, Douglass tells the true story of the cold, harsh, unsettling conditions he was forced to experience as a slave in the 1800’s. Frederick reveals the transformation that took him from a boy slave into manhood and how he had to rely on his own intellect to make his cruel conditions just even the slightest bit better. This autobiography gives insight into an […]

How To Write an Essay About Slavery

Understanding the history and impact of slavery.

Before you begin writing an essay about slavery, it is essential to have a comprehensive understanding of its history and impact. Slavery, the practice of owning and exploiting humans as property, has existed in various forms throughout history and across cultures. In your essay, focus on a specific era or type of slavery, such as the transatlantic slave trade, ancient slavery in Rome or Greece, or modern forms of slavery. Research the socio-economic and political contexts in which slavery existed, the life and treatment of slaves, and the long-term impacts on societies. Understanding the complexities and nuances of slavery will provide a solid foundation for your essay.

Formulating a Thesis Statement

A strong essay on slavery should be centered around a clear, concise thesis statement. This statement should present a specific angle or argument about slavery. For example, you might focus on the economic reasons behind the transatlantic slave trade, the psychological effects of slavery on individuals and communities, or the resistance and rebellion by slaves. Your thesis will guide the direction of your essay and ensure that your analysis is focused and coherent.

Gathering and Analyzing Historical Evidence

To support your thesis, gather historical evidence from credible sources. This may include primary sources like slave narratives, letters, and legal documents, or secondary sources like scholarly articles and history books. Analyze this evidence critically, considering the context, perspective, and purpose of each source. Use this evidence to support your arguments and provide depth to your analysis of slavery.

Discussing the Legacy and Contemporary Relevance

In your essay, discuss the legacy of slavery and its contemporary relevance. This could include its impact on racial relations, economic structures, and cultural practices. Consider how the history of slavery continues to influence current social and political issues. This discussion will add depth to your essay, connecting historical analysis with present-day implications.

Concluding Your Essay

Conclude your essay by summarizing the main points of your analysis and restating your thesis in light of the evidence presented. Your conclusion should tie together your arguments and emphasize the significance of understanding slavery's history and impact. Reflect on the broader implications of your findings, such as the importance of historical memory and the need for ongoing dialogue and education about slavery.

Reviewing and Refining Your Essay

After completing your essay, take the time to review and refine it. Ensure that your arguments are clearly articulated and supported by evidence. Check for grammatical accuracy and ensure that your essay flows logically from one point to the next. Consider seeking feedback from peers, teachers, or historians to further refine your essay. A well-written essay on slavery will not only reflect your understanding of the topic but also demonstrate your ability to engage critically with complex historical subjects.

1. Tell Us Your Requirements

2. Pick your perfect writer

3. Get Your Paper and Pay

Hi! I'm Amy, your personal assistant!

Don't know where to start? Give me your paper requirements and I connect you to an academic expert.

short deadlines

100% Plagiarism-Free

Certified writers