Final answer:
Escaped slaves were prohibited from joining the Abolitionist Movement primarily due to legal restrictions and fear of retribution. (option C)
Step-by-step explanation:
Escaped slaves were often prohibited from joining the Abolitionist Movement due to legal restrictions. The Fugitive Slave Act of 1850, among other laws, mandated the return of escaped slaves to their owners, making it illegal for abolitionist groups to openly support or harbor fugitive slaves. Abolitionists feared legal consequences and the enforcement of these laws, which hindered escaped slaves from actively participating in the movement. The legal framework at the time prioritized the rights of slaveholders over the pursuit of freedom for escaped slaves, creating a barrier to direct involvement in the Abolitionist Movement. This legal obstacle, represented by Option C, underscores the complex challenges faced by escaped slaves and abolitionists alike during the fight against slavery. In conclusion, the legal restrictions imposed by legislation like the Fugitive Slave Act were a significant deterrent for escaped slaves seeking to join the Abolitionist Movement.