Fugitive Slave Act

• 1793: New law requires return of fugitives from slavery

• 1836: Black women free two who fled bondage

• 1837 Wendell Phillips: Powerful voice for abolition

• 1837 Women's anti-slavery efforts transform town

• 1841: First history of Black people in U.S. published

• 1842: Campaign prevents escapee's return to bondage

• 1846 "Father" of Underground Railroad helps free 800

• 1847: The Crafts: Tireless speakers against slavery after daring escape

• 1849: Harriet Tubman: "Moses" is also top Union spy

• 1850: Harsher Fugitive Slave Act is part of political deal

• 1850-1860: Underground Railroad helps thousands secure freedom

• 1850: Nancy Gardner Prince publishes autobiography

• 1850: Martin Delany: Abolitionist leader, champions Black self-reliance

• 1851: Challenges to Fugitive Slave Act fire movement

• 1854: Court case boosts anti-slavery sentiment

• 1854: Wisconsin activists help escapees, challenge Fugitive Slave Act

• 1855: New party backs armed resistance to slavery

• 1855: Personal liberty laws protect escapees

• 1860: Lincoln victory hailed as historic turning point

• 1861 Pro-slavery sentiments roil Massachusetts town

• 1862 Congress frees all enslaved people in Washington, D.C.

• 1865: Refugees in Canada start coming home