Chattel Slavery and Its Historical Context

This chapter explores the brutal realities of chattel slavery during Columbus's era, emphasizing its widespread nature across different cultures and societies. It connects the emergence of a proto-capitalist economy with the interconnectedness of slavery, trade, and moral questions surrounding economic growth. The discussion further examines the impact of the Renaissance on societal views of slavery and the transformation of trade networks shaped by explorations, ultimately revealing the complexities that defined this historical period.