indentured servitude was a labor system in which a person agreed to work for another person for a set number of years in exchange for transportation, food, shelter, or training.
It was commonly used in the American colonies during the 1600s and 1700s.
Many poor Europeans became indentured servants to pay for passage to North America.
During their contract period, they were required to work for their employer, often under harsh conditions. After completing the agreed term—usually 4 to 7 years—they were to gain their freedom and sometimes land, money, or supplies.
Unlike slavery, indentured servitude was temporary and based on a contract, though servants often had very limited rights while under the arrangement.
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