runaway slave

Frequency: 5.03.4 per million words

A historical term for an enslaved person who has escaped from their owner.

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Examples (20)

  • The Fugitive Slave Act of 1850 made it a federal crime to assist a runaway slave.
  • The Fugitive Slave Act made it a crime to harbor a runaway slave.
  • Many runaway slaves sought refuge in the Northern states or Canada.
  • Many runaway slaves sought freedom in the North.
  • The Underground Railroad was a network that helped runaway slaves escape to freedom.
  • A runaway slave was a dangerous individual in the eyes of the law.
  • Historical accounts often depict the perilous journey of a runaway slave.
  • The Underground Railroad helped runaway slaves escape to freedom.
  • A bounty was often placed on the capture of a runaway slave.
  • Historical accounts often depict the perilous journey of a runaway slave.
  • Some runaway slaves formed their own communities in remote areas.
  • Fearing recapture, the runaway slave traveled only at night.
  • The narrative explored the motivations and struggles of a runaway slave seeking liberty.
  • The master offered a reward for the capture of his runaway slave.
  • The legal status of a runaway slave was that of property.
  • Literature frequently explores the themes of freedom and the pursuit of a runaway slave.
  • Folk tales frequently tell stories of clever runaway slaves outsmarting their pursuers.
  • The capture of a runaway slave often resulted in severe punishment.
  • The escape of a runaway slave was a significant act of defiance against the institution of slavery.
  • A runaway slave symbolized the deep desire for liberty.