The Fugitive Slave Act was enacted by the United States Congress in 1793. The act guaranteed slave owners the right to recover runaway slaves. The House of Representatives passed the act in 1793 by a 48-7 vote with 14 abstaining. When the Thirteenth Amendment was passed, abolishing slavery, the Fugitive Slave Act lost its power. As you read, take notes on the nature of freedom, especially in American history. This informational text is for grade 10 readers. The Fugitive Slave Act of 1793 by The United States Congress is in the public domain.