1.Passage to America: The cost of traveling across the Atlantic ocean would often have been prohibitively high for individuals. Becoming an indentured servant provided an affordable way for those seeking a better life in the new world.
2. Opportunity for a New Beginning: Many individuals during this period were seeking to escape poverty, religious persecution, or other adverse circumstances in their home countries. Indentured servitude offered a chance for a fresh start in the American colonies, where land and opportunities, were believed to be abundant.
3. Economic Mobility: Although indentured servitude involved years of bounded labor, it typically came with a contractural agreement that specified a fixed period of service, after which the indentured person gained their freedom. For many, this servitude represented a pathway towards achieving eventual economic security and the chance for establishing their own ventures.
4. Land Ownership: Some indentured servant contracts stipulate that upon completion of their service, they would receive a small amount of land or other compensation as a reward for their labor. This was particularly appealing to those who dreamed of owning property in America but lacked financial means.
5. Learning Skilled Trades: Many indentured servants spent their years of service acquiring valuable skills in agriculture, carpentry, or other crafts. This knowledge could serve them well after they gained freedom and become the basis for starting a new life.
6. Lack of Alternative Opportunities: For individuals in desperate situations, indentured servitude often presented a viable alternative to a life of poverty or hardship in their home country. It offered a structure and defined path towards a better future, even if the road ahead was challenging.
However, it's crucial to recognize the challenging aspects as well. Indentured servitude was not without its hardships and exploitation, with long working hours, uncertain living conditions, and the potential for abuse by master. Some indentured servants might fall victim to harsh treatment, sickness, or even death.
The decision to become an indentured servant in the 17th century was a complex and personal one, influenced by individual circumstances and motivations. While it provided a chance for a new beginning and economic opportunities, it also entailed considerable sacrifices and risks that had to be carefully considered before committing to such an arrangement.