Fugitive Slaves (1619-1865)

"Fugitive Slaves (1619-1865)" by Marion Gleason McDougall is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book addresses the complex subject of fugitive slaves in America, detailing legislation, societal attitudes, and individual cases that shaped the experiences of enslaved people who sought freedom. Through meticulous research, McDougall aims to correct misconceptions and provide a clearer understanding of this often-overlooked aspect of American history. The opening of the monograph sets the stage by explaining the early context of slavery in the American colonies, starting from 1619. McDougall outlines how the establishment of slavery led to the creation of various laws and regulations concerning fugitive slaves across different colonies, particularly highlighting New England, Dutch, and Southern colonial practices. The text notes the challenges faced by enslaved individuals attempting to escape and the methods employed by their owners to recapture them, indicating early complexities in the legal and social frameworks surrounding slavery and freedom. This introduction serves to frame the broader discussions that follow in the subsequent chapters of McDougall's work.