Coerced labor and its aftermath, in both national and global contexts, are defining characteristics of the modern world. Professors in this field research and teach the origins of slavery in the Atlantic, the business of the slave trade, the cultural and social history of slaves, and the politics of emancipation. Their work extends into contemporary debates about the lasting impact of the slave experience on contemporary politics and identities, as well as the varied experiences of diaspora. Comparative work looks at other forms of coerced labor as well, from Roman times to the sex trade to convict leasing schemes and other current forms of bondage labor. Faculty in the area include: