What term describes someone who works for a certain number of years in exchange for passage to a new country and eventual freedom?

Study for the Modern World History Test. Engage with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each equipped with hints and explanations. Get ready to excel in your exam!

The term that describes someone who works for a certain number of years in exchange for passage to a new country and eventual freedom is "Indentured Servant." This arrangement was particularly common in the 17th and 18th centuries, especially in the American colonies, where individuals, often from Europe, would enter into a contract to work for a specific period—typically between four to seven years. In return for their labor, they would receive passage to the New World and, upon completion of their service, a grant of land, tools, or money to help them start their new life.

This practice provided a means for the servants to eventually achieve freedom and establish themselves in society, which was in stark contrast to slavery, where individuals were not offered the possibility of freedom. Indentured servitude played a crucial role in the labor force of early colonies, significantly contributing to their economic development.

The other terms refer to different forms of labor arrangements: "Apprentice" typically applies to a younger person learning a trade under a skilled tradesperson; "Free Laborer" denotes someone who works voluntarily without a binding contract; and "Contract Worker" often refers to workers engaged in specific jobs under contract but not tied to the same historical context of serv

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy