Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Today in History: George Washington signs Act banning slave exportation

3/22/2026

36 6

Summary

Story summary

On March 22, 1794, President George Washington signed the Slave Trade Act, which prohibited the construction or outfitting of ships in U.S. ports for the international slave trade. This landmark legislation marked the first of several anti-slave-trade measures by Congress, aiming to curb the inhumane practice and its economic implications.

1 of 1

Story summary

On March 22, 1794, President George Washington signed the Slave Trade Act, which prohibited the construction or outfitting of ships in U.S. ports for the international slave trade. This landmark legislation marked the first of several anti-slave-trade measures by Congress, aiming to curb the inhumane practice and its economic implications.