Understanding Black Codes and Their Impact on Freedmen

Black Codes were laws that restricted the rights and freedoms of Black freedmen and women after the Civil War. These laws prevented Black people from voting, testifying against white people, serving on juries, and joining state militias. They also restricted travel and employment freedom. The main goal was to maintain the structure of enslavement. Over time, Black Codes evolved into Jim Crow laws, which continued to enforce racial segregation and discrimination.

What was the primary purpose of Black Codes?

• To restrict the rights of Black freedmen and women

• To encourage Black people to vote

• To abolish slavery completely

• To promote equality among all citizens

Which of the following was NOT a restriction imposed by Black Codes?

• Preventing Black men from voting

• Banning Black people from joining state militias

• Allowing Black people to serve on juries

• Prohibiting Black people from testifying against white people

How did Black Codes affect the employment of Black people?

• They were required to stay in their jobs

• They were free to change jobs at will

• They were encouraged to start their own businesses

• They were given high-paying jobs

What was a consequence of Black Codes in the next century?

• They were replaced by civil rights laws

• They led to the end of racial segregation

• They were completely abolished

• They evolved into Jim Crow laws

Which of the following best describes the evolution of Black Codes?

• They were forgotten and had no impact

• They became more lenient over time

• They were replaced by more just laws

• They transformed into equally unjust Jim Crow laws