Judge Cooley. in his "Principles of Constitutional Law." page 237. says: The word "slavery" in this country has acquired a somewhat technical meaning and is limited to that sort of servitude which has prevailed under the state laws. namely. to servitude for life. The prohibition of slavery might therefore seem tc be limited to this sort of service. leaving the legislative authorities to establish a compulsory service for terms of years at discretion. Indeed. such servitude had existed In the early history of the country in cases of immigrants. known as " redemptioners." and of some others. and it would be easy to suggest exceptional cases in which excuses might exist to enact laws for compulsory service were the Legislature so disposed. It was deemed important. therefore. that the prohibition should include not slavery merely. but all classes of involuntary servitude not imposed as a punishment. Mr.
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