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American Experience  Fugitive Slave Act

The Fugitive Slave Law of 1850 made the hunting down of escaped slaves full legal. Details

 

Program: American Experience

Episode: Fugitive Slave Act

The Fugitive Slave Law of 1850 made the hunting down of escaped slaves, even in free states, fully legal. To abolitionists, this represented a huge blow to their efforts. Not only had the federal government endorsed slavery, but it had also committed to preserving the institution indefinitely.

• Visit the Fugitive Slave Act webpage

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Duration: (2:19)
Premiere Date: 01/08/2013
Episode Expires: Never
TV Rating: NR


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