[I have slightly re-worded this topic for better clarity of the topic’s intent and to improve the learning experience and to be more sensitive to issues being raised in our nation today–and to show better the connections to current issues. This rewording will not negatively impact the grading of any postings done this week. ] . During the Reconstruction Era (1865-1877), the Southern states created many laws and policies of their own. These included “Black Codes” that either tried to minimize new “post-Civil War” federal laws and policies or were in retaliation to them. The 13th amendment–and the celebration of Juneteenth etc (realized in 1865; first celebrated by African Americans in 1866)–these were very real. No longer could a person be bought and sold; no longer could a member of that person’s family be bought and sold. Huge step forward. But—it was still a long way from full, equal rights and liberties.
All of these restrictions were horrible, painful, and offensive. Just reading about them can help one better connect with the painful issues raised in recent days in demonstrations across the country. Select one of the following restrictions from these codes (p. 294-5 in your textbook). Discuss how that particular restriction would pose practical problems and seriously compromise a person’s newly won freedom.
Then, in a full paragraph or two:
