New York Draft Riots facts for kids

The New York Draft Riots (July 13 – 16, 1863; known at the time as Draft Week) were violent disturbances in New York City. They happened when anger with President Lincoln and his laws was highest. At first it just wanted to show anger at the draft. But the protests became violent and "a virtual racial pogrom, with uncounted numbers of blacks murdered on the streets".

Major General John E. Wool said on July 16, "Martial law ought (should) to be proclaimed, but I have not a sufficient (enough) force to enforce it." The military stopped the mob using weapons. However, they had already destroyed many buildings, including homes and an orphanage for black children.

Images for kids

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  Recruiting poster for the Enrollment Act or Civil War Military Draft Act of the federal government for the conscription of troops for the Union Army in New York City on June 23, 1863

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  John Alexander Kennedy, NYC police superintendent from 1860 to 1870

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  Attack on the Tribune building

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  The Colored Orphan Asylum which was burned.

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  Rioters attacking a building on Lexington Avenue.

See also

In Spanish: Draft Riots para niños