Civil War and Reconstruction Era
The Civil War and its aftermath marked a pivotal period in American history, particularly for Black Americans. This era saw the abolition of slavery and attempts at reconstruction, but also the emergence of new forms of racial oppression.
The Civil War began due to tensions between Northern and Southern states over the issue of slavery. The Republican Party, led by Abraham Lincoln, opposed the extension of slavery into new states. This stance prompted Southern states to form the Confederate States of America, fearing for the future of slavery under Lincoln's presidency.
Highlight: Although initially willing to accept the continuation of slavery, Lincoln later issued the Emancipation Proclamation, which declared that slaves in Confederate states conquered by Union forces would be free.
The end of the Civil War in 1865 brought about significant changes for Black Americans. The 13th Amendment, passed by the Senate in April 1864, officially ended slavery. However, true equality remained elusive.
Definition: Sharecropping - A system where freed slaves worked land owned by white landowners, supposedly sharing the crop equally, but often resulting in continued exploitation.
The Freedmen's Bureau was established to assist freed slaves, providing food, clothing, and medical care. However, it faced challenges and was eventually disbanded in 1872.
Example: The Black Codes, laws passed by Southern states in 1865-1866, severely restricted the rights of freed slaves, making it difficult for them to purchase land, obtain education, or vote.
The period of Radical Reconstruction saw further attempts to secure rights for Black Americans:
- The 14th Amendment guaranteed all citizens equality before the law.
- The Military Reconstruction Act of 1867 divided Southern states into districts governed by Union generals.
- The 15th Amendment, passed under President Ulysses S. Grant, prohibited denying the right to vote based on race.
- The Civil Rights Act of 1875 aimed to prevent discrimination in public places.
These efforts at reform, however, faced significant challenges and resistance in the years to come.
