Blackbirding: meaning, definitions and examples
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blackbirding
[ 'blækˌbɜrdɪŋ ]
forced labor
Blackbirding refers to the practice of coercing or kidnapping individuals, often to work as laborers. This term is particularly associated with the recruitment of Pacific Islanders as laborers for plantations in Australia during the 19th century. The term carries connotations of exploitation and human trafficking.
Synonyms
forced labor, human trafficking, kidnapping for labor
Examples of usage
- The blackbirding of islanders became a significant part of Australia’s labor history.
- Many families were affected by blackbirding practices in the late 1800s.
- Historically, blackbirding contributed to the decline of certain Pacific Island communities.
Translations
Translations of the word "blackbirding" in other languages:
🇵🇹 escravização
🇮🇳 काले पक्षी का शिकार
🇩🇪 Schwarzarbeit
🇮🇩 perbudakan
🇺🇦 чорна робота
🇵🇱 czarna praca
🇯🇵 ブラックバーディング
🇫🇷 esclavage
🇪🇸 esclavitud
🇹🇷 kölelik
🇰🇷 블랙버딩
🇸🇦 استعباد
🇨🇿 otrokářství
🇸🇰 otrokárstvo
🇨🇳 黑鸟行为
🇸🇮 sužnjenje
🇮🇸 þrælahald
🇰🇿 қара құс
🇬🇪 შავი ფრინველი
🇦🇿 qarabazlıq
🇲🇽 esclavitud
Etymology
The term blackbirding likely originated in the mid-19th century, deriving from the association of blackbirds with the practice of capturing people for labor. It emerged in the context of the Pacific Islands and Australia, highlighting the exploitative labor practices of that era. The practice was particularly prevalent during the sugar cane plantation boom in Australia, where large numbers of Pacific Islanders were forcibly taken or misled into labor contracts. Blackbirding is considered a dark chapter in the history of labor exploitation, illustrating the broader themes of colonialism and human rights violations. As awareness of these practices grew, the term blackbirding became associated with the historical injustices faced by those affected. Today, it serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting human rights and the dignity of all individuals.