What is a manumission

Manumission is the act of a slave owner freeing their slaves, granting them independence and legal status as a free person. In history, manumission took place in many cultures and typically required a legal or formal declaration. Manumission could be granted unconditionally, or it could come with certain terms and conditions the freed individual had to meet. The motivations for manumission varied and could be based on moral or ethical reasons, a reward for long service, as part of a will, or even purchased by the slaves themselves if they were allowed to earn or save money.

Extra: Manumission has deep historical roots and can be found in many ancient societies, including those of Greece, Rome, and in various Islamic traditions. The process and rules surrounding manumission could be complex and typically reflected the values and legal structures of the time and place.

For instance, in Ancient Rome, freeing a slave was a common practice that could be accomplished in several ways, including a declaration in front of friends, a statement in a will, or through a formal letter. Once freed, slaves often became 'freedmen' or 'freedwomen' but might still retain certain obligations to their former master, known in Latin as a "patron".

The subject of manumission is closely tied to discussions about slavery, human rights, and legal systems. It can also be a gateway to understanding how social structures can evolve and change over time. While the practice of formal manumission is largely a thing of the past, its historical occurrences reflect the changing views on personal freedom and the value of human life in various societies throughout history.