Final answer:
The correct answer is d) All of the above. Slaves in ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia were often people defeated in war, made servants in households of political elites, and it was possible for their children to become free and even attain political power and wealth.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question asks which statement is true regarding slaves in ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia. The statements provided in the question were that slaves were often people defeated in war (a), they were often made servants in the households of the political elites (b), and their children could sometimes become free, wealthy, and politically powerful (c).
The correct answer is d) All of the above. Slavery in ancient civilizations was complex and multifaceted. For instance, some enslaved individuals managed to attain education and could run businesses, work as bureaucrats, teachers, or accountants. In certain cases, they could amass wealth and secure their freedom. However, it was more common for slaves to be laborers or craftsmen. They worked on farms, in homes, or in public bureaucracies, among other roles.
In some societies, the children of slaves could become free and integrate fully into the community, with the possibility of achieving wealth and power. This diversity in the experience of enslaved individuals spanned across different civilizations, including Egypt, Mesopotamia, and beyond. Thus, the portrayal of slaves as commodities of war, as servants for elites, and with the potential for their offspring to integrate into society holds true across these ancient cultures.
Answer: d) All of the above