How Far Back Does Slavery Actually Go
Summary
This episode explores the ancient origins of slavery, tracing its emergence from prehistoric captivity to formalized institutions in Mesopotamia, Egypt, India, China, and Greece. The host examines archaeological evidence and legal codes, such as the Code of Hammurabi and Shang dynasty oracle bones, to reveal how war captives and debtors became enslaved. Key topics include social reforms like Urukagina’s debt cancellations, the ethnic dimensions of Egyptian slavery, and Aristotle’s philosophical justifications for the practice.
Topics discussed
Sponsor: Sherwin-Williams Labor Day Sale
Introduction: Origins and Scope of Slavery
Channel Support and Patreon Updates
Prehistoric Roots: Neolithic and Hunter-Gatherer Societies
Mesopotamia: Sumerian and Babylonian Slave Laws
Early Social Reforms and Debt Slavery in Mesopotamia
Assyrian Empire: War Captives and Slave Markets
Ancient Egypt: Pyramid Workers and New Kingdom Slavery
Egyptian Slavery: Ethnicity, Rights, and Daily Life
India and South Asia: Vedic Age to Classical Period
Shang Dynasty China: Human Sacrifice and Retainers
Zhou and Han Dynasties: State and Private Slavery
Ancient Greece: Mycenae, Philosophy, and Revolts
Sub-Saharan Africa: Early Records and Trade
Pre-Columbian Americas: Maya, Aztec, and Inca Slavery
Conclusion: Pervasiveness of Slavery in Antiquity
Acknowledgments to Patrons and Supporters
Closing Remarks and Call to Action
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