SET A SLAVE FREE. RANSOM AS A SOCIAL CONNECTION IN THE NAPLES OF THE MODERN AGE
SET A SLAVE FREE. RANSOM AS A SOCIAL CONNECTION IN THE NAPLES OF THE MODERN AGE
Author(s): Giovanni LombardiSubject(s): History, Economic history, Social history, Modern Age, 16th Century, 17th Century
Published by: Институт за балканистика с Център по тракология - Българска академия на науките
Keywords: Mediterranean; Naples; ransom; slavery; captives; welfare;
Summary/Abstract: In the Modern Age, the ransom of slaves and captives was a large-scale phenomenon. It responded to material interests and had an international breath, symbolic and social weight. In substance, it was part of a civilization. Hence, the historiographical questions about slavery appear countless. This paper focuses on the Neapolitan perspective by which ransom and relief disclosed pervasive social action, embodied purposes, and values. Naples was a multi-ethnic, populous capital and Mediterranean crossroads. In this context, the ransom of the Christian slaves – including the grey zone of the converts and renegades – worked as a uniting factor, shaping energies, social connections and groups. That happened in many ways. Three focuses emerge: the foundation of dedicated institutes that were also places of political negotiation and representation; the social collaboration around shared values and interests; and, last but not least, the relationships of trust materialized by the banking support and the merchant community.
Journal: Études balkaniques
- Issue Year: 2023
- Issue No: 1
- Page Range: 51-67
- Page Count: 17
- Language: English
- Content File-PDF