EMANCIPIST Meaning and
Definition
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An emancipist refers to an individual who has been granted freedom from a condition of servitude or bondage, particularly in the context of Australian colonial history. The term originated during the early 19th century in reference to convicts who had completed their sentences and were subsequently set free. Emancipists primarily comprised individuals who had been transported to Australia as punishment for their crimes, often from the United Kingdom, and had since finished their sentences.
The status of emancipist carried a significant social stigma, as they were often seen as having a tainted past and were regarded with suspicion by the free settlers in the Australian colonies. Consequently, emancipists faced various forms of discrimination and were often excluded from positions of influence and power.
Over time, attitudes towards emancipists gradually changed, particularly as their numbers grew and they began to contribute positively to society. Many emancipists proved themselves by actively engaging in business, trade, and agriculture, which ultimately led to their acceptance in the broader community. However, they still faced limitations in terms of participating in the political and social life of the colonies.
The term "emancipist" is primarily used in the Australian historical context and may not have widespread recognition outside of this specific context. It serves as a reminder of the complex social dynamics of early Australian colonial society and the struggles faced by individuals seeking to reintegrate into a free community after serving their sentences.
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In Australia, a convict who has been set free, or who has regained his liberty.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for EMANCIPIST
- wmancipist
- smancipist
- dmancipist
- rmancipist
- 4mancipist
- 3mancipist
- enancipist
- ekancipist
- ejancipist
- emzncipist
- emsncipist
- emwncipist
- emqncipist
- emabcipist
- emamcipist
- emajcipist
- emahcipist
- emanxipist
- emanvipist
Etymology of EMANCIPIST
The word "Emancipist" is derived from the noun "emancipation" and the suffix "-ist".
The noun "emancipation" traces its origins back to the Latin word "emancipatio", which is a compound of the prefix "e-" meaning "out" and "manus" meaning "hand". In ancient Rome, it referred to the process of freeing a child from the authority of its father and transferring the child's legal power to someone else.
The term "emancipist" itself emerged in 19th-century Australia. It referred to a convict who had served their term of sentence and had been granted conditional or absolute pardon. These emancipated convicts were allowed to live in the colony as free individuals but were subject to certain restrictions and often faced social discrimination due to their criminal past.
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