The United States Conscription Law or National Militia Act. Approved March 2d, 1863. Official and Complete. New York: James W. Fortune, publisher; Edward O. Jenkins, printer, 1863. 

16mo, 32 pages. Advertising interspersed. Original blue wrappers. FIRST EDITION. 

A scarce booklet printing the controversial Enrollment Act of 1863, the first genuine national conscription. Faced with the reality of a prolonged war, the Federal Government passed the Enrollment Act, also known as the Civil War Military Draft Act, on 3 March 1863 to provide fresh troops to the Union Army. It required enrollment for male citizens and immigrants who had filed for citizenship between 20 and 45, with quotas assigned to each state. 

The New York City Draft Riots erupted in July 1863, sparked in direct opposition to the Conscription Act. Many working-class residents, particularly Irish immigrants, resented the draft provision that allowed wealthier men to avoid service by paying a commutation fee. Black Americans were not subject to the draft, as they were not considered citizens, which fueled further racial tensions. What began as protests against enrollment offices quickly escalated into widespread rioting, arson, and brutal attacks, especially targeting Black residents and abolitionists. Federal troops, some newly arrived from the Battle of Gettysburg, were ultimately deployed to restore order. The riots remain among the deadliest episodes of civil unrest in American history. 

[Ephemera, Pamphlets, Publications, Booklets] [Civil War, Union, Confederate]