The decline of servitude took place mainly in three time periods: in the 1650s with the rise of slavery in the New World, from 1818-1840 in the United States, and in 1917 when indentured servitude was outlawed in the Americas.
Men, women, and sometimes children signed a contract with a master to serve a term of 4 to 7 years. In exchange for their service, the indentured servants received their passage paid from England, as well as food, clothing, and shelter once they arrived in the colonies.