Race And Slavery In The Middle East: An Histori... (2025)

: Until the early 20th century, slaves included both white Europeans (such as Slavs and Circassians) and black Africans.

: Islam restricted the methods of enslavement and encouraged the manumission (freeing) of slaves. Race and Slavery in the Middle East: An Histori...

: Lewis addresses why there are relatively few descendants of African slaves in the Middle East today compared to the Americas. He attributes this to high mortality rates, low birth rates, and the frequent castration of male slaves. Critical Reception : Until the early 20th century, slaves included

: Unlike the rigid racial castes in the Americas, slaves in the Middle East could occasionally rise to significant power and renown, such as the Mamluk military commanders. He attributes this to high mortality rates, low

: Lewis argues that Westerners often idealized Islamic slavery to criticize American practices, but he presents evidence that racial prejudice—specifically against black Africans—was present in Middle Eastern society despite Islamic teachings of equality. Unique Features of Middle Eastern Slavery :

Lewis examines how slavery functioned differently in Islamic lands compared to the transatlantic trade, while also highlighting the evolution of racial prejudice in the region.

In his 1990 work, renowned historian Bernard Lewis explores the complex social structures of the Middle East, specifically debunking the myth that the region was a "racial utopia". Core Arguments & Themes