Civil War Draft Riots

The Civil War Draft Riots were a series of violent protests that occurred in 1863, primarily in New York City. They erupted in response to the Union's implementation of a draft, which required men to enlist in the military to fight in the Civil War. Many working-class citizens opposed the draft, seeing it as unfair, especially because wealthier individuals could pay for substitutes. The riots escalated into violent clashes, targeting draft offices, African Americans, and businesses. The unrest highlighted deep social divides, including class tensions and racial issues, and it underscored widespread resistance to the draft and war policies.