Freedman: meaning, definitions and examples
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freedman
[ ˈfriːd.mən ]
historical context
A freedman is a former slave who has been granted freedom. In historical contexts, particularly in the Roman Empire and the antebellum United States, the term is often used to denote someone who has gained emancipation from servitude. Freedmen held certain rights and privileges, but their social status and integration into society varied greatly. Their experiences and rights have been subjects of significant historical discussion and analysis.
Synonyms
emancipated individual, liberated person, voluntary worker
Examples of usage
- The freedman sought to build a new life.
- Freedmen faced many challenges after emancipation.
- In ancient Rome, a freedman could become a citizen.
- Organizations worked to support freedmen during Reconstruction.
Translations
Translations of the word "freedman" in other languages:
🇵🇹 libertador
🇮🇳 स्वतंत्र व्यक्ति
🇩🇪 Befreiter
🇮🇩 orang merdeka
🇺🇦 вільна людина
🇵🇱 wyzwoliciel
🇯🇵 解放者
🇫🇷 libérateur
🇪🇸 libertador
🇹🇷 özgürleştirici
🇰🇷 해방자
🇸🇦 محرر
🇨🇿 osvoboditel
🇸🇰 osloboditeľ
🇨🇳 解放者
🇸🇮 osvoboditelj
🇮🇸 frelsari
🇰🇿 азат
🇬🇪 თავისუფლებელი
🇦🇿 azad edən
🇲🇽 libertador
Etymology
The term 'freedman' has its roots in the Old English word 'freodom', which signifies freedom or liberty. It is derived from the Proto-Germanic word '*frijō', meaning 'beloved', 'free', or 'peaceful'. Historically, the word gained prominence in the context of slavery, particularly during the Roman Empire and in the United States before and during the Civil War. In ancient Rome, freedmen were former slaves who had been granted freedom, often attaining a mixed status in society, where they could participate in economic activities but still remained subordinate to their former masters. In the US, especially post-Civil War, the term came to represent African Americans who were emancipated from slavery, particularly during the Reconstruction era. The legal status and social challenges of freedmen became pivotal issues in American history, leading to ongoing discussions about civil rights and equality.