Reading up to the civil war what was the journey like for runaway / figurative
The journey for runaway slaves and those seeking freedom was long, treacherous, and fraught with danger. Running away from slavery was not only challenging but also illegal, so runaways had to be highly resourceful and brave to navigate their way to freedom.
The first step for many runaways was to escape from their masters' plantations or homes. This required careful planning and often involved finding a moment of opportunity when they could flee without being noticed. Some runaways would escape alone while others formed groups or joined established networks such as the Underground Railroad, a secret network of abolitionists and safe houses that aided fugitive slaves in reaching free states or Canada.
Once they escaped, runaways had to navigate through unfamiliar territories and rugged landscapes. They often relied on the guidance of the North Star, following it as they traveled northward towards freedom. However, this journey was physically demanding as many runaways had to travel on foot, facing harsh weather conditions and limited food and water supplies. They would often travel at night, hiding during the day to avoid detection.
Runaways faced great risks along the way. Slave catchers, individuals hired to capture and return escaped slaves, were a constant threat. These bounty hunters would pursue runaways relentlessly, using dogs, weapons, and intimidation tactics to track them down. Runaways had to be constantly vigilant, avoiding major roads, settlements, and other places where they could be easily captured.
In addition to the dangers posed by slave catchers, runaways also faced risks from the general population. Although there were sympathetic individuals who supported the abolitionist cause, there were also many people who were willing to return fugitive slaves, either due to their own beliefs or for the financial reward provided for capturing runaways. This made it essential for runaways to be cautious and wary of everyone they encountered.
As they made their way north, runaways had to rely on the help of sympathetic individuals they encountered along the way. These individuals, often referred to as "conductors" or "station masters," provided shelter, food, and assistance in planning the next leg of the journey. They guided runaways through safe routes, often using code words and signals to pass along information without attracting suspicion.
The journey could take weeks, months, or even years, depending on the distance traveled and the obstacles faced. Many runaways experienced great hardships and suffering during their pursuit of freedom. However, for those who were able to successfully reach free states or Canada, the journey was worth the risks and sacrifices.
The Civil War, which started in 1861 and lasted until 1865, had a significant impact on the journey of runaway slaves. As the war progressed, more opportunities for freedom emerged as the Union Army, which fought for the abolition of slavery, advanced into Confederate territory. Many runaways joined the Union Army as soldiers or were employed as laborers, finding a measure of security and freedom within the military forces.
In conclusion, the journey for runaway slaves and those seeking freedom before the Civil War was harrowing and dangerous. Runaways faced numerous risks, from slave catchers to betrayal by fellow travelers. Despite these challenges, many runaways were able to find their way to freedom, often with the assistance of the Underground Railroad and sympathetic individuals. The Civil War, in turn, provided additional opportunities for freedom as the Union Army advanced and emancipation became a central objective of the war effort.