1850
Oppression
The Fugitive Slave Act of 1850
A federal law compelling citizens to capture escapees — radicalizing the North and endangering all Black Americans.
Resistance
Harriet Tubman escapes and returns
After escaping slavery, Tubman makes repeated trips back via the Underground Railroad, freeing dozens.
Zoom in — months
Key events
- September 18, 1850The Fugitive Slave Act of 1850
A federal law compelling citizens to capture escapees — radicalizing the North and endangering all Black Americans.
- December 1850Harriet Tubman escapes and returns
After escaping slavery, Tubman makes repeated trips back via the Underground Railroad, freeing dozens.