Question

What was the major difference between indentured servants and slaves?

Answer 1

Indentured servants were people who worked for a limited time, usually 4 or 5 years, provided with food and shelter by their masters, and were then on their own. They were supposed to be provided with supplies when done working but most weren't.

Slaves were forced to work their entire lives, and while one could choose to be an indentured servant in order to obtain passage to America, slaves were forced against their will to serve.