The Compensated Emancipation Act

As we take a look back in history, the emancipation of slaves was a complicated process. Although the people who worked tirelessly were never provided retribution, those who owned slaves were provided reparation. In 1862, the government put an end to a long struggle as they passed the Compensated Emancipation Act, providing slave owners compensation for enslaved people who were liberated. This act paid out $300 for every person freed and became notable as it was the first time the federal government authorized abolition of slavery. Jim Scott dives into the occurrences leading up to the passing of this act and discusses the happenings following its institution into action.