What was the cause of the New York City draft riots?
The New York City draft riots (July 13–16, 1863), known at the time as Draft Week, were violent disturbances in Lower Manhattan, widely regarded as the culmination of white working-class discontent with new laws passed by Congress that year to draft men to fight in the ongoing American Civil War.
Why was there a draft in New York City?
The rich were able to afford the fines, while the disenfranchised and poor white men, who in New York City were often Irish, were forced to enlist because they were frequently the sole source of income for their families. When the draft came to New York City in July 1863, anti-government anger turned to anti-government and anti-black violence.
What was the New York City draft exemption fund?
(6) (12) New York City formed a draft exemption fund to aid those drafted who had families but could not afford to find substitutes to serve in the army. With the $300 payment provided by the fund, most of those seeking help from the fund were able to find substitutes from among immigrants not eligible for the draft.
When did the draft start in New York?
Implementation of the draft began in New York on Saturday, July 11, 1863. By Monday, July 13, Manhattan was in turmoil; and on Tuesday and Wednesday, violence and rioting were severe.
Why was there so much anger against the draft?
Public anger against the draft stemmed from anti-war sentiment, the perceived risks of having to serve in the army, and the perceived unfairness of the draft. With the war seen as an effort by the North to end slavery and free Negro slaves, much anger turned against all black persons, particularly black men.
When did the Dutch settle in New York?
The Dutch first settled along the Hudson River in 1624; two years later they established the colony of New Amsterdam on Manhattan Island. In 1664, the English took control of the area and renamed it New York.