In ancient Rome, slavery was an integral part of society. Slaves worked in households, farms, mines, and public buildings. Many slaves were prisoners of war or born into slavery. They had varied treatment, from harsh conditions to relatively better treatment depending on their roles and owners.

Historian Mary Beard notes, "Slavery was not just about forced labor; it shaped the social and economic fabric of Rome."

Primary sources such as inscriptions and writings reveal both the harsh realities and some instances of slaves gaining their freedom.

Source A: Inscriptions from a Roman villa 'I am a slave who works in the kitchen. My master treats me fairly and I have been granted my freedom.'

Source B: Pliny the Elder, Natural History 'Slaves are essential to the functioning of Roman society, but their treatment varies widely.'

These sources provide insight into different experiences of slaves, from relatively good conditions to the recognition of their importance in society.