The Plight of Freed Slaves During the American Civil War: Contrabands and Beyond

In the period following the American Civil War, the experiences of former slaves who were freed by Union troops were complex and often harrowing. This article explores the circumstances and conditions faced by these newly freed individuals, their involvement with the Union Army, and the challenges they encountered during a time of great upheaval.

Introduction to the Freed Slaves

During the Civil War, Union troops played a significant role in freeing slaves in Confederate states. By the end of the conflict, approximately 200,000 African Americans, nearly all of whom had been born into slavery, had joined the Union Army or Navy. This number represents a substantial portion of the total Union forces, demonstrating the military significance of these freedoms. However, the immediate future for these newly freed individuals was far from certain.

Initial Conditions and Placement

Immediately after the Emancipation Proclamation went into effect in early 1863, many freed slaves found themselves in a precarious position. They were initially placed in so-called contraband camps. These camps served as temporary shelters and provided basic necessities, but there was no long-term plan to accommodate the rapidly growing number of freed individuals. Without a structured approach, many freed slaves remained on their plantations or followed Union army camps.

Contraband Camps: Shelter and Education

One of the most notable of these early camps was Fort Monroe in Virginia, which became a haven for approximately 10,000 freed slaves. Fort Monroe provided more than just physical shelter; it also offered educational opportunities and training for free and gainful employment. This initiative marked a significant step towards the goal of integrating freed slaves into American society.

Challenges and Constraints

Despite the initial steps taken by the Union to assist freed slaves, numerous challenges remained. One of the primary issues was the limited mobility of the newly freed individuals. This lack of freedom was complicated by the ongoing nature of the conflict and the risk of being recaptured as slaves by those who wished to enforce the return to servitude.

The Follow-Up: Aftermath and Beyond

As Sherman's troops moved through Georgia and South Carolina, the number of freed slaves accompanying the army grew exponentially. Their presence became a significant logistical and moral issue. Many of these individuals found themselves following the army, often without a clear destination or purpose. They faced numerous challenges, including the lack of resources, education, and job opportunities.

Civilian Reports and Governmental Oversight

The conditions faced by freed slaves were closely monitored by both military and civilian entities. In 1865, Governor Henry W. Allen of Louisiana wrote a letter to Supervising Special Agent Treasury Department, highlighting the mistreatment and exploitation of these individuals by Union recruiters and troops. The letter describes the taking of property, such as mules and carts, and coercion toward military service.

The Louisiana Cavalry and other state militias often faced criticism for their treatment of freed slaves. While some accounts lamented the return of freed individuals to slavery, it appears that these so-called raids were often efforts to rescue the freed individuals from perceived dangers. Governor Allen's implication suggests that the Confederate forces were motivated by a genuine desire to protect these individuals from exploitation and abuse.

Conclusion and Reflection

The experiences of freed slaves during the American Civil War highlight the complex framework of freedom and the lasting impact of the conflict on American society. While the Union's efforts to free slaves were monumental, the subsequent challenges faced by these individuals underscore the need for a more structured and comprehensive plan to ensure their welfare and integration into society. The dedication of resources and initiatives like those at Fort Monroe remain critical lessons for understanding the broader context of the Civil War and its aftermath.