Before the emancipation proclmatioproclamation enslaved African Americans who were captured by union forces were often treated as?

Before the Emancipation Proclamation, enslaved African Americans captured by Union forces were often treated as "contraband of war." This meant that they were considered property seized from the enemy and were typically not returned to their enslavers. Instead, many were put to work for the Union army or in support roles, reflecting a shift in how the Union viewed their status and contributions during the Civil War. This treatment laid the groundwork for the eventual push towards emancipation and the recognition of their rights.