The Fugitive Slave Act was a federal law passed by the United States Congress in 1850 as part of the larger Compromise of 1850. It was intended to address the issue of runaway slaves and the growing tensions between slave-holding and free states. The act required that all escaped slaves, even those living in free states, be captured and returned to their owners. It also imposed heavy penalties on anyone who aided or harbored fugitive slaves.

The Fugitive Slave Act was highly controversial and sparked significant opposition from abolitionists and free Black communities. It forced free states to participate in the institution of slavery by enforcing the capture and return of escaped slaves, leading to an increase in kidnappings and wrongful detainments of free Black individuals.

The act further fueled tensions between the North and the South and contributed to the growing divide that eventually led to the Civil War. Despite its intentions, the Fugitive Slave Act ultimately served to galvanize the abolitionist movement and strengthen the resolve of those fighting against slavery in the United States.