The abolition of slavery, contract and convict labour

Transition to contract and convict labour

The equalization of tariffs within the British Empire in 1825 triggered the expansion of sugar production locally. This resulted in an increased demand for labour. ^[1]

The harsh conditions of slavery have resulted in much speculation with regards to what happened on plantations when slavery was abolished. It is a common assumption that most slaves migrated out of the plantations due to the previously inhumane conditions. While this may be true, the Truth and Justice Commission also points out that upon the abolition of slavery, former slaves were left with no land to cultivate, were not offered any housing, and were offered very low wages^[2]. The conditions of the abolition, with compensation being directed to slave owners and the availability of cheaper labour sources are thought to have greatly contributed to this migration of ex-slaves away from the plantations.

The first contractual labourers were Africans, Malagasies and Comorians who were brought in before and after the abolition of slavery on contracts. Among them were also individuals who had been freed from illegal slave ships, and they were termed “Liberated Africans”. The contracts were to last 14 years similar to the apprentice system. Most of them were employed by the government and British officials and some local planters, including Charles Telfair who employed 91. Their health and living conditions were reportedly not better than that of slaves, and the mortality rate was extremely high.^[3]