What union generals called runaway slaves?

Union generals often referred to runaway slaves as "contrabands" during the Civil War. This term emerged from the belief that escaped slaves were property seized from the Confederacy, thus allowing Union forces to claim them under the law of war. The use of the term highlighted the complex legal and moral issues surrounding slavery and freedom during the conflict. As a result, many escaped slaves found refuge and support within Union lines, contributing to the efforts against the Confederacy.