Maryland passes a new constitution that outlaws slavery 3 months before the 13th Amendment.

Annapolis

November 1, 1864

Categories: African American, Civil War, Government, Politics
Tags: 1861 – 1899, Anne Arundel County

Maryland Unionists in the General Assembly pass a new state constitution that outlaws African American enslavement three months before Congress passes the 13th amendment. November 1 becomes an annual celebration of Emancipation Day in Maryland. (A Maryland nickname, “The Free State” does not refer to emancipation, but signals the state’s refusal to endorse prohibition.)

It also disenfranchises Confederate sympathizers. Union soldiers vote in the field and the new constitution is ratified by a margin of 375 votes. The Assembly replaces this constitution in 1867 with a revision that re-enfranchises returned Confederates.

For More Information

Maryland State Archives – 1864 Constitution

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