Through Roberts' research, we gain a deeper understanding of the experiences of war slaves, who faced unimaginable hardships and brutal treatment. Many were forced to march long distances, often under the threat of violence, to work on plantations, in factories, or on military projects. Others were used as domestic servants, performing menial tasks for their owners.
The American Civil War, fought from 1861 to 1865, was a pivotal moment in the nation's history, marked by the abolition of slavery and the preservation of the Union. However, the war also had a darker side, one that involved the exploitation and enslavement of thousands of people, both free and captive. In his groundbreaking book, "Captive Nation: Slavery, Resistance, and Culture in Antebellum America," historian Gary Roberts sheds light on this overlooked aspect of American history. In Part 2 of our exploration of Gary Roberts' work on War Slaves, we delve deeper into the lives of those who were enslaved during the Civil War era. Gary Roberts War Slaves Part 2