History & Social Studies

What was the Gradual Abolition of Slavery Act in New York, 1799?

I am writing a paper

Asked by katrina.mooers@wagner.edu on 27 Mar 05:34

Last updated by Jill W on 30 Aug 12:17

1 Answers

Answered by Jill W on 30 Aug 12:17

The Act for the Gradual Abolition of Slavery, passed in 1799, did not free existing slaves. It did, however, declare that children of slaves born after July 4, 1799 were legally free, though these children were forced to serve an extended period of indentured servitude. Thus, true freedom was not truly attained until males (age 28) and females (age 25).