How did servitude differ from slavery? Why did the laws get more complicated over time?

Discovering the American Past: From English Servants to African Slaves: Creating Racial Slavery in Colonial Virginia

How did servitude differ from slavery? Why did the laws get more complicated over time?

Servitude was different from slavery in that it was a form of bondage, meaning there was an agreement on a period of unpaid labor that usually paid off the costs of the servant's immigration to America. The servants were not paid wages but they were generally housed, clothed, and fed.

The servants themselves were not considered property and were free upon the end of their indenture (usually a period of five to seven years).

In slavery, they were considered property of their masters. They are not given freedom and they are considered property as long as they live. No rights at all.

Discovering the American Past: From English Servants to African Slaves: Creating Racial Slavery in Colonial Virginia

In the early years of the colony, many Africans and poor whites - - most of the laborers came from the English working class - - were the same. Black and white women worked side-by-side in the fields. Black and white men who broke their servant contract were equally punished.