Slavery was well suited to producing wealth (for the owner) in the ancient world or middle ages, where there really wasn't that big a distinction between a slave and a serf or a farmer/tradesman. In the 19th century, the capitalists realised that with the labour intensive jobs done by slaves being far less prominent, it was cheaper to use 'wage slaves' who didn't need to be fed, clothed, housed or kept from running off. Additionally when they wore out, were injured, went blind or mad or whatever, they could be easily replaced by another willing wage-slave with no loss of investment by the capitalist. I.E. Why would I pay a substantial sum (and good slaves have always been expensive items, except when there has been a huge surplus), then have to pay to feed and house the slaves, pay guards to watch them, have the risk that they will escape or murder me in my bed, when I can open a factory and have willing workers beg me for the opportunity to generate wealth for me, and usually paid a pittance? Some might think the slaves had a better deal. Http://levaithan.weblogs.com New Books at Discount Prices --- Send the right message --- + Today freemail + Get your free, private email address at http://www.today.com.au --- You are currently subscribed to e-gold-list as: archive@jab.org To unsubscribe send a blank email to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
