Humans at Last, Emotions at Least. Enslavement and Freedom Struggles of Four Iconic Haratin Women of Mauritania

Abstract Using an ethnographic method, this article goes into the enslavement and liberation struggles of four iconic Haratin women in Mauritania, exploring the intricate dynamics of slavery, gender, sexuality, migration and emotional norms. By examining these women’s experiences, the research sheds light on enduring social, legal, and personal practices in modern Mauritania where slavery and post-slavery categorisation is difficult to distinguish. The article examines emotional norms linked to institutional slavery, contrasting these with the transformative experiences of freedom encountered by these women. Ultimately, the aim is to illuminate the interconnected narratives of enslavement, migration and emotional experiences, offering insights into the struggles and triumphs of Haratin women in their pursuit of liberation in Mauritania.