Fugitive slaves
How The Fugitive Slave Act Paved The Way For The Civil War
Author Andrew Delbanco says Northerners began to realize slavery wasn't just a Southern issue after the passage of the 1850 law. His book is The War Before The War. Originally broadcast Nov. 6, 2018.
How The Fugitive Slave Act Ignited A 'Struggle For America's Soul'
Author Andrew Delbanco says the 1850 law paved the way for the Civil War by endangering the lives of both escaped slaves and free black men and women in the North. His book is The War Before The War.
'Gateway To Freedom': Heroes, Danger And Loss On The Underground Railroad
While writing his new book, historian Eric Foner relied on a recently discovered record of slaves' escapes. He says the documents paint a "revealing picture" of life on the Underground Railroad.
A New Chapter in the "Roots" Saga
TV critic David Bianculli reviews the new ABC special, Roots: The Gift, which revisits protagonist Kunta Kinte. He says it's a true successor to the original miniseries, and exceeds it in quality.