The early Tamil Sangam literature mentions slaves known as 'adimai'.

Adimai is the Tamil term used to refer to slaves or servants as mentioned in the early Tamil Sangam literature. The Sangam era, which dates back to around 300 BCE to 300 CE, was a period of great literary and cultural development in ancient Tamil society. The literature from this period provides valuable insights into various aspects of life including social structure, economy, and political organization.

Overview of Tamil Sangam Literature
- The Tamil Sangam literature is a collection of poems and texts composed by various poets and scholars during the Sangam era.
- It is divided into two main groups known as the "Eight Anthologies" (Ettuthokai) and the "Ten Idylls" (Pattuppattu).
- These texts provide information about the social, cultural, and economic conditions prevailing during that time.

References to Slavery in Sangam Literature
- The Sangam literature mentions the existence of slaves or adimai in ancient Tamil society.
- These slaves were considered the property of their owners and were often used for various tasks such as agriculture, domestic chores, and other forms of labor.
- The adimai were usually acquired through capture in wars, as a result of debt bondage, or through inheritance from previous generations.
- They were considered a part of the household and were expected to serve their masters faithfully.

Role and Treatment of Slaves
- The adimai played a crucial role in the functioning of the household and the larger society.
- They were responsible for performing various tasks such as farming, herding cattle, cooking, cleaning, and serving their masters.
- Slaves could also be trained in specialized skills such as weaving, pottery, or carpentry.
- The treatment of slaves varied depending on their owners. While some owners treated their slaves fairly, others could be harsh and exploitative.
- Slaves were often subjected to physical labor, long working hours, and were deprived of basic rights and privileges.

Impact on Society
- The existence of slavery had a significant impact on the social structure and economy of ancient Tamil society.
- The presence of a slave class provided economic support to the upper classes and allowed them to focus on other pursuits such as art, literature, and governance.
- Slavery also reinforced social hierarchies and inequalities, as the ownership of slaves was seen as a symbol of wealth and power.

In conclusion, the early Tamil Sangam literature mentions the presence of slaves known as 'adimai'. These individuals served as domestic servants and laborers, playing a crucial role in the functioning of households and society. The existence of slavery had a profound impact on the social structure and economy of ancient Tamil society.