They are slaves that ran away from their masters back in the olden days.
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Runaway slaves were enslaved individuals who escaped from their owners in pursuit of freedom. They often fled under dangerous and clandestine circumstances, seeking refuge in free states or Canada. These escape attempts were a form of resistance against the institution of slavery.
Slaves who escaped were often referred to as fugitives, runaways, or freedom seekers. Some escaped slaves were also called maroons, particularly those who formed independent communities in remote areas.
The British took steps to discourage slave rebellion and runaways, as they feared uprisings that could threaten their control. They implemented harsh punishments for slaves involved in rebellions and escapes, such as executions and severe beatings. Additionally, efforts were made to tighten control over slaves and discourage resistance through surveillance and monitoring.
Slaves had to carry a pass or note signed by their master in order to travel because it served as proof of permission to be off the plantation or property. This was a way for slave owners to control the movements of their slaves and to prevent them from escaping or being mistaken for runaways. It was a form of surveillance and control over the enslaved population.
The plural form of runaway is runaways.
The Fugitive Slave Law was part of the Compromise of 1850 and involved Southern slave owners, Northern abolitionists, and runaways slaves. It required that escaped slaves be returned to their owners, leading to tensions between states and further polarizing the nation on the issue of slavery.