December 27, 1868

The December Decree on Abolition

This decree was more than a vague promise, it solidified the ideals of the movement (a more solid idea of emancipation but limited). Céspedes decreed that all slaves belonging to enemies would be freed and their owners would not receive compensation while pro - Cuban owners who present their slaves to rebel authorities would get financial compensation. This was limited though because runaway slaves would be brought back to owners if they supported the Cuban cause and separatists could lend their slaves to the cause while still maintaining ownership. In all, the decree represented a very limited emancipation and condoned slavery.

Cuba

Maggie Peterjohn

Cuba