Question

How did the Militia Act affect African Americans during the Civil War?

Answer 1

The Militia Act affected African Americans because it freed slaves who had masters in the Confederate Army.

Answer 2

The Militia Act was a document passed in 1862 that allowed African Americans to participate as war laborers and soldiers in the war.

The act was seen differently among different groups. On the one hand, there was an element of equality present in it, as black soldiers were able to participate equally in the efforts of the war. This was a positive step. However, African Americans who joined the war effort generally had a lower status as well as lower pay when compared to white soldiers.