New York Draft Riots

Definition

The New York Draft Riots occurred in July 1863 when mandatory conscription into the Union Army incited violent protests among working-class men in New York City.

Analogy

Imagine if your school suddenly made it compulsory for all students to participate in a dangerous sport. Those who didn't want to play would likely protest or riot - this is similar to what happened during these riots.

Related terms

Conscription Act of 1863: Legislation passed by Congress that instituted compulsory military service for male citizens aged 20-45 but allowed exemptions for those who could pay $300 or hire substitutes.

Civil War Era Class Tensions: Social conflicts between different classes due to economic disparities exacerbated by war conditions.

Irish-Americans in Civil War Era NYC: Many Irish immigrants lived in NYC at this time and were disproportionately affected by draft laws, leading many to participate in these riots.