Militia Act of 1862 facts for kids
.svg) |
|
| Long title | An Act to amend the Act calling forth the Militia to execute the Laws of the Union, suppress Insurrections, and repel Invasions, approved February twenty-eight, seventeen hundred and ninety-five, and the Acts amendatory thereof, and for other Purposes. |
|---|---|
| Enacted by | the 37th United States Congress |
| Effective | July 17, 1862 |
| Citations | |
| Statutes at Large | 12 Stat. 597 |
| Legislative history | |
|
|
| Major amendments | |
|
|
The Militia Act of 1862 was an important law passed during the American Civil War. It helped the United States government get more soldiers for the war. This act allowed states to draft men into the army if they didn't have enough volunteers. It also made a big change: for the first time, African Americans were allowed to join the military as soldiers or workers.
Contents
What Was the Militia Act of 1862?
The Militia Act of 1862 was a law created by the 37th United States Congress. This happened in the middle of the American Civil War, a huge conflict that divided the country. The war needed many soldiers to fight.
Getting More Soldiers for the War
Before this act, the government mostly relied on volunteers to join the army. But as the war continued, more and more soldiers were needed. This new law allowed states to start a "militia draft." This meant that if a state couldn't find enough people to volunteer, it could require men to join the military.
A Big Step for African Americans
One of the most important parts of the Militia Act of 1862 was its impact on African Americans. For the first time, this law officially allowed African Americans to serve in the military. They could join as soldiers or as war laborers, helping with tasks like building roads or moving supplies. This was a significant moment in the fight for equal rights.
Who Signed This Law?
The Militia Act of 1862 was signed into law by President Abraham Lincoln on July 17, 1862. His signature made it an official part of the country's laws during the Civil War.
