Artwork
Illustration of the attack on the city’s courthouse led by Boston abolitionists. Their goal was to free Anthony Burns, who had been detained under the Fugitive Slave Act. This violence was the result of years of frustration towards the law. 1856.
Anthony Burns, who sought freedom from slavery in 1854, was arrested that same year under the Fugitive Slave Act of 1850. Slave catchers brought him to Boston’s courthouse, where he was held until a trial could take place. Hearing of Burns’ arrest, local abolitionists met to determine what actions should be taken to ensure his freedom, but some grew anxious to free him completely, and a group was led to the courthouse. They broke into the building and rioted, attempted to rescue Burns. In the chaos, shots were fired, and a federal marshal was killed. Burns remained in their custody and was then ordered to return to Virginia and slavery. In the riot’s wake, though, tension within Boston grew. Even as Burns was marched down State Street to an awaiting ship, the public still surrounded the street. They were held back on the mayor’s orders by both local authorities and militia. Burns’ arrest and the violence that resulted signified a growing concern for federal sympathy towards slavery.
