Question

When did slavery first emerge in Virginia

Answer 1

Slavery first emerged in Virginia in the early 17th century. The exact date is uncertain, but it is believed to have started around 1619 when a Dutch ship arrived at Point Comfort (present-day Hampton) with "20 and odd" African captives who were forced into servitude. These individuals were treated as indentured servants initially, but over time, the institution of chattel slavery developed, permanently binding African people to a lifetime of servitude and establishing a foundation for the slave-based economy in Virginia.