An introduction to slavery in world history followed by four case study chapters. Slavery has been a multi-faceted and nearly universal phenomenon for thousands of years, and this text places it in its proper world-historical context. The case study chapters underscore the pervasiveness of slavery across cultures and time, while illustrating the variety of situations in which the enslaved have found themselves. Part of the "Connections: Key Themes in World History" series, this text helps students understand world history by focusing on an issue that has been a feature of human existence. Learning GoalsUpon completing this book readers will be able to:Think about world history by focusing on a specific theme Use primary source documents to think critically about the topicsSet aside myths and common mindsets about slavery to understand the multiple forms it has assumed around the globe across many millennia Understand what role slavery plays today