7. The Chinese Eunuch and Domestic Slave System
Slavery in China has a long and complex history, reaching its height during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Eunuchs—often boys taken through war or purchase—served in the imperial court, wielding considerable influence over state affairs. Alongside eunuchs, domestic slaves performed household, agricultural, and administrative labor. These practices, fueled by both warfare and trade, left a lasting mark on Chinese society and governance. Read about slavery in Asia
