"Slaves of Mercury" is a science fiction short story written by Nathan Schachner. This grasping story, set in a future where humanity has colonized the planet Mercury, explores the cruel realities of survival and the extent individuals will go to escape adversity. The narrative follows Captain Dennison, who commands a motley crew of miners and laborers working in the oppressive and dangerous conditions of Mercury's harsh environment. Life on Mars is constantly at risk due to the planet's harsh temperatures, corrosive atmosphere, and persistent threat of solar flares. Dennison's leadership is tested not only through the physical challenges of Mercury, but also by the revolt and discontent of his crew, who are literally slaves to the mining firm. As tensions grow and conditions deteriorate, the narrative dives into problems related to exploitation, opposition, and the resilience of the human spirit. Nathan Schachner effectively crafts a vivid and compelling environment on the inhospitable planet Mercury, where the hardships of people everywhere parallel deeper issues of oppression and injustice.
Nathaniel Schachner (January 16, 1895 – October 2, 1955) was an American writer, historian, and attorney who advocated for the creation of rockets for space travel. He authored under the pen names Nat Schachner and Nathan Schachner. Schachner, a well-known author of historical books on people from America's Revolutionary War, was also a regular contributor to the genre in the years leading up to and during what became known as the Golden Age of Science Fiction (c. 1938-1946). Schachner is best known for biographies of American historical leaders such as Thomas Jefferson and Alexander Hamilton, although he began his literary career by contributing short tales to renowned "pulp magazines" specializing in science fiction, horror, mystery, and adventure. He produced almost fifty pieces to periodicals such as Astounding pieces, Terror Tales, Horror Stories, Dime Mystery Magazine, and Fantastic Adventures during the Great Depression. He then began writing historical nonfiction and fiction, receiving acclaim for his exhaustive research.
Schachner, a lawyer, was a founding member and officer of the American Interplanetary Society, which pioneered liquid fuel rocketry in the United States in the early 1930s.
