The construction of the Great Wall of China involved a vast workforce, and while it’s true that forced labor was used at various points in history, it is a simplification to say it was entirely built by slaves.
Most of the workers who built the wall were soldiers, peasants, and prisoners. During the Qin Dynasty (221-206 BC), the emperor Qin Shi Huang enlisted a large number of soldiers and forced laborers for the wall’s construction. Many of these people were conscripted, meaning they were compelled to work as part of their service to the state rather than being enslaved in the traditional sense.
Throughout the wall’s extensive building history, which spanned several dynasties, the labor force varied, including local inhabitants who might have seen it as a way to support their communities. This involvement sometimes stemmed from a sense of patriotic duty or the hope of earning money. Although conditions were harsh, and many laborers faced dangers and severe hardships, saying they were all slaves overlooks the nuances of the workforce involved.
In summary, while the Great Wall was built using forced labor, including some who were treated akin to slaves, it was not solely constructed by slaves. The workforce was diverse and comprised individuals with different backgrounds and circumstances.