When Were Slaves Free In Virginia: A Historical Perspective

In a pivotal moment during the American Civil War, the Restored Government of Virginia, convening in Alexandria on April 7, 1864, took a historic step towards ending slavery within the state. At this constitutional convention, Virginia made the landmark decision to abolish slavery in the region that remained steadfastly loyal to the United States during this tumultuous period. This significant move marked a turning point in Virginia’s history, as it aligned itself with the broader national effort to eliminate the institution of slavery.

Did Virginia make it illegal to free slaves? The opportunity for individuals to emancipate slaves only emerged after the American Revolution. Prior to that, for over half of the 18th century, from 1723 to 1782, Virginia law explicitly prohibited individual slave

Virginia was indeed a state where slavery played a significant role throughout its early history, persisting until the Civil War. While the legal importation of slaves “by sea or land” ceased in 1778, the institution of slavery continued to thrive within Virginia’s borders. This enduring presence of slavery was deeply ingrained in the state’s society and economy, shaping the lives of both enslaved individuals and the broader community. Slavery’s impact on Virginia was profound and enduring, leaving a lasting legacy that would be a central issue in the lead-up to the Civil War.