Captives and Companions

"Captives and Companions" offers a compelling and comprehensive examination of the long, complex history of slavery within the Islamic world, spanning from the 7th century to today. Combining historical analysis with contemporary reportage, the book highlights the diverse roles enslaved individuals have played throughout history, from soldiers and laborers to leaders and elites, and explores how this legacy persists in the modern era. Traveling across regions from Baghdad to Timbuktu, the narrative vividly illustrates the human stories behind this often-overlooked aspect of history.