The practice of kidnapping or forcibly recruiting people, especially from Pacific Islands, to work as laborers under harsh conditions.
From 'blackbird' (slang for enslaved laborers, 19th century) plus gerund '-ing'. Originated during colonial expansion in the Pacific.
Between 1860-1910, thousands of Pacific Islanders were 'blackbirded' to work in sugar plantations and other industries—this shameful practice shaped entire island economies and populations, yet many people today have never heard of it.
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