The Fugitive Slave Law And Its Victims

By Samuel May

Book Overview

The Fugitive Slave Law and Its Victims is a historical account of the controversial legislation that was passed in the United States in 1850. Written by Samuel May, a prominent abolitionist and social reformer, the book provides a detailed analysis of the law and its impact on the lives of enslaved individuals and their allies.The Fugitive Slave Law of 1850 was designed to strengthen the institution of slavery by making it easier for slave owners to reclaim their escaped slaves. The law mandated that any person accused of being a runaway slave had to be returned to their owner, regardless of whether they had been living as a free person for years. The law also imposed heavy fines and jail sentences on anyone who aided or harbored a fugitive slave.May's book explores the human toll of the law, describing the experiences of enslaved individuals who were captured and returned to bondage, as well as the efforts of abolitionists and other activists to resist the law and protect those who had escaped slavery. May's account is based on extensive research, including interviews with former slaves and their allies, as well as legal documents and other primary sources.Throughout the book, May emphasizes the cruelty and injustice of the Fugitive Slave Law, arguing that it was a clear violation of basic human rights and a stain on the moral character of the United States. Despite its controversial subject matter, The Fugitive Slave Law and Its Victims is a valuable historical document that sheds light on a dark chapter in American history and the struggle for freedom and equality.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1432552333
• ISBN13: 9781432552336
• Release Date: June 2007
• Publisher: Kessinger Publishing
• Length: 172 Pages
• Weight: 0.57 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.4" x 6.0" x 9.0"