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Indentured Servitude Essay

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Indentured Servitude Essay
The political climate in America took a different form from its origins in Europe. The colonies were far from the royal government. The colonies created their own institutions which resulted in their own self-government. Local communities became capable of running themselves and maintained control over the delegates appointed to the colonial assembly. The provincial governors appointed by the crown lacked control and were never certain of their time in office. (American History, p97).
The economic tensions were driven mostly by the acquisition of material goods. As the division of the social classes grew, the wealth flaunted their status by buying and displaying consumer goods. The demand was further facilitated by advertising in journals
…show more content…
Indentured servitude was a system of temporary service which originated in England. The length of service usually lasted four to five years. During that time, the subject was bound to their master. They received compensation in the form of transportation to America, food and shelter. At the completion of their service, they were also to receive additional benefits such as clothing tools, and land which rarely actually happened. (American History, p68)
Indentured servants in America were voluntary transplants. They were a percentage, however, that did not arrive here of there own free will. The English government also frequently sent convicts to America to be sold into servitude. Also in this group were prisoners of war that were taken from battles with the Scots and Irish. Several victims of kidnapping also found their way to America by greedy investors. Slaves, also servants, were all brought here involuntarily. They were typically members of enemy tribes captured by native chieftains during battle and sold into the slave trade. They were packed into ships bound for America, many of which never survived the journey. Upon arrival, they were auctioned off to wealth landowners and transported to their new homes. Unlike indentured servitude, slaves remained in service permanently unless freed by their masters. (American History,

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