REFUGEE

One who flees to a shelter, or place of safety. Especially, one who, in times of persecution or political commotion, flees to a foreign power or country for safety; as, the French refugees who left France after the revocation of the edict of Nantes.

A person seeking refuge (as for shelter or protection), especially in a foreign country, out of fear or prospect of political, religious persecution, war, natural disaster, etc. | A person who is fleeing from justice, punishment deemed righteous, etc.; a runaway, a fugitive.

To convey (slaves) away from the advance of the federal forces.