Slavery in Ancient Rome: How the System Worked and Shaped Roman Society
Slavery was a central part of life in ancient Rome. It shaped the economy, social structure, and everyday living across the Roman world. Enslaved people worked in almost every area of Roman society, from hard labor to highly skilled professions. Many slaves did difficult and dangerous work in farms, mines, and mills. These workers had little chance of improving their lives or gaining freedom. Others, however, were skilled or educated. These slaves worked as artisans, cooks, household servants, entertainers, teachers, doctors, accountants, librarians, and even business managers. Skilled slaves often lived better lives and had a real hope of earning their freedom. One unique feature of Roman slavery was manumission —the legal process through which slaves could be freed. Freed slaves, known as freedpersons , could become Roman citizens under certain conditions. Over time, many freedpersons became influential members of Roman society. In practice, slaves, freed people, and free workers...