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The American Civil War and Conscription Policies

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The Enrollment Act of 1863 was a critical measure during the American Civil War, mandating compulsory service for male citizens aged 20-45. It allowed for exemptions and substitutions, leading to socioeconomic disparities and the infamous New York Draft Riots. The act and its consequences highlighted class and racial divisions, influencing future social movements.

The Enrollment Act of 1863 and Its Necessity

The American Civil War, a pivotal conflict in United States history, resulted in significant casualties, leading to a critical need for additional soldiers. To address this, the Union Congress passed the Enrollment Act on March 3, 1863, which was the first instance of compulsory service in the federal military. This legislation required all male citizens, as well as immigrants who had filed for citizenship, between the ages of 20 and 45 to enroll for the draft. The act marked a departure from previous voluntary enlistment and militia service, and it imposed stringent penalties for evasion, reflecting the Union's urgent need to bolster its military ranks.
Mid-19th century street scene with diverse men in period attire showing tension, a burning cart, and vintage buildings, evoking the Civil War era.

Provisions for Exemptions and Substitutions

The Enrollment Act permitted draftees to avoid service by either paying a commutation fee of $300 or by providing a substitute to serve in their stead. This provision exposed socioeconomic inequalities, as the fee was a substantial sum that many laborers could not afford, thus disproportionately affecting the poor. The substitution system was exploited by some who became known as 'bounty jumpers,' who would accept payment to enlist as substitutes and then desert, only to repeat the process elsewhere. This practice not only undermined the draft's effectiveness but also led to widespread frustration and resentment among those who could not afford to avoid service.

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00

During the American Civil War, men aged between ______ and ______ were required to register for the draft, according to the Union's Enrollment Act.

20

45

01

Enrollment Act Commutation Fee Impact

The $300 fee allowed draft avoidance, unaffordable for many laborers, disproportionately impacting the poor.

02

Substitution System Exploitation

'Bounty jumpers' exploited the system by enlisting as substitutes, deserting, and repeating elsewhere.

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