"Dissertation discusses transition from slavery to emancipation through detailed study of the final three decades of slavery, the 10-year period of apprenticeship, and the first seven years of complete freedom. Examines influence of enslavement on newly liberated slaves, and how they rebuilt their lives after abolition. Based on archival sources in Suriname, The Netherlands, and Germany; most important sources are the reports by Moravian Brethren. Includes three-page summary in English"--Handbook of Latin American Studies, v. 58.