Captives or Slaves and Masters in Eivissa (Ibiza), 1235–1600

A nuanced understanding of captivity and slavery on the island of Ibiza (Eivissa) emerges from a quantitative analysis of medieval sources, revealing that captives—predominantly male and originating from diverse regions—were integral to agricultural labor and public works. The study challenges classical definitions by Claude Meillassoux while critiquing Charles Verlinden's interpretation, showing that medieval terminology often conflated 'captives' with 'slaves.' Slave masters were typically economically prominent figures holding political offices or owning significant properties, suggesting a link between social status and captivity. This work offers a fresh perspective on the socio-economic dynamics of slavery in late medieval Ibiza.

Abárzuza, A. F. (2016). Captives or Slaves and Masters in Eivissa (Ibiza), 1235–1600. Medieval Encounters, 22(5), 565–593. https://doi.org/10.1163/15700674-12342238