The types of slaves that ran away were usually the slaves who were ready to be sold. However, all different kinds of slaves ran away, as this was their form of resistance.
Chat with our AI personalities
All types of slaves ran away, including domestic servants, field workers, craftsmen, and skilled laborers. Slaves often sought freedom to escape harsh conditions, cruel treatment, and exploitation by their owners. Some slaves also ran away to reunite with family members or seek better opportunities for themselves.
Slaves ran away by taking advantage of opportunities when they were unsupervised, seeking help from sympathetic individuals or communities, utilizing underground networks like the Underground Railroad, and making use of their knowledge of local terrain and resources.
Runaway slaves in the United States often attempted to reach free states in the North, Canada, or other countries where slavery was prohibited. These destinations provided the opportunity for freedom and safety from being captured and returned to their owners.
Slaves who ran away often faced harsh punishments such as whipping, branding, or being permanently disabled. They could also be sold to a harsher owner, separated from their families, or even killed as a deterrent to others.
Slaves resisted slavery in various ways, such as running away, engaging in acts of sabotage or breaking tools, pretending to be sick, feigning confusion or ignorance, and organizing rebellions or uprisings. Some slaves also used their skills to slow down work or escape.
Slaves who ran away faced harsh punishments such as beatings, mutilation, or even death when caught. In addition, escaping meant leaving behind any support networks and risking not being able to find a safe haven. The Fugitive Slave Act also allowed for the capture and return of escaped slaves, increasing the danger of running away.