From ancient times to the present day, slavery was a part of many different cultures, nationalities, and religions. It was first mentioned in the earliest records, such as the Mesopotamian Code Of Hammurabi (c. 1860 BC), and it can, unfortunately still be found in some countries around the world. Although the legal positions of slaves have differed in different times and places, today, domestic slavery is no longer legal anywhere in the world. However, in some form or another, it still appears.
American history is not an exception here. In the USA, having black slaves, was a legal institution in most states during the 18th and 19th centuries. Before the law to prohibit the slave trade was enacted, they were treated like any other commodity you might buy. There were times when slaves were sold to the person who bid the most for them. Sometimes, chattel slavery also destroyed families since the bidder only wanted to buy the strongest and healthiest family member.
As shocking as these slavery facts sound, when the slave ship was about to arrive, the ads for auctions where slaves could be bought appeared all over the city in the form of posters. You can see some of these vintage ads below, but we must warn you – they’re not for the fainthearted, but you cannot erase historical facts. (h/t)
