Legal Definitions - glebae ascriptitii

Definition: Glebae ascriptitii is a term used in Roman law to refer to tenants or serfs who were bound to the land. These individuals were known as adscripti glebae, which translates to "tenants tied to the soil." When the land was sold or conveyed, the serfs were also transferred along with it.

Example: In ancient Rome, many people were adscripti glebae, meaning they were tied to the land they worked on. For example, if a farmer sold his land, the serfs who worked on that land would also be sold along with it. This practice was common in many societies throughout history, as it allowed landowners to maintain a stable workforce.

Explanation: The example illustrates how adscripti glebae were tied to the land they worked on. These individuals had little freedom and were essentially the property of the landowner. When the land was sold or transferred, the serfs were also transferred along with it, which meant they had no say in where they lived or worked. This practice was common in many societies throughout history, but it is now considered a form of slavery.