Fighting For Black Citizenship In White Republic 1829 1889 Penguin History

More Than Freedom: Fighting for Black Citizenship in a White Republic, 1829-1889 (Penguin History American Life)

by Stephen Kantrowitz

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4001 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	529 pages

FREE

The period between 1829 and 1889 was a tumultuous era in the history of the United States, marked by both progress and setbacks in the fight for Black citizenship. During this time, African Americans faced numerous legal, political, and social challenges as they sought to gain full and equal rights in a society that was deeply divided along racial lines.

The Legal Framework

The legal framework governing Black citizenship in the United States during the 19th century was complex and often contradictory. The Constitution, ratified in 1789, did not explicitly define citizenship, but it did grant citizenship to "all persons born or naturalized in the United States." However, the Supreme Court's infamous Dred Scott decision in 1857 ruled that African Americans were not citizens and could not sue in federal court.

After the Civil War, the 13th Amendment (1865) abolished slavery, the 14th Amendment (1868) granted citizenship to all persons born or naturalized in the United States, and the 15th Amendment (1870) prohibited states from depriving citizens the right to vote based on race. However, these amendments were often ignored or evaded by white supremacists in the South, who passed a series of laws known as Black Codes to restrict the rights of African Americans.

The Political Struggle

The political struggle for Black citizenship was also fraught with challenges. African Americans were largely excluded from the political process during the 19th century. In many states, they were denied the right to vote, serve on juries, or hold public office. Even in states where they were allowed to vote, they often faced intimidation and violence from white supremacists.

Despite these challenges, African Americans made significant progress in the political arena during this period. In 1870, Hiram Revels became the first African American to serve in the U.S. Senate. In 1872, Joseph Rainey became the first African American to serve in the U.S. House of Representatives. And in 1877, Frederick Douglass was appointed as the U.S. Marshal for the District of Columbia.

The Social Struggle

The social struggle for Black citizenship was perhaps the most difficult and protracted. African Americans faced discrimination in every aspect of their lives, from housing and education to employment and healthcare. They were often segregated from whites in public spaces, and they were denied access to basic amenities such as clean water and sanitation.

Despite these challenges, African Americans fought back against racism and discrimination in a variety of ways. They organized protests and demonstrations, petitioned the government for their rights, and established their own schools, churches, and businesses. They also fought for the right to vote, and they played a key role in the civil rights movement of the 20th century.

The struggle for Black citizenship in the United States was a long and difficult one, but it was ultimately successful. By the end of the 19th century, African Americans had made significant progress towards achieving full and equal rights. However, the legacy of racism and discrimination continues to haunt the nation today.

More Than Freedom: Fighting for Black Citizenship in a White Republic, 1829-1889 (Penguin History American Life)

by Stephen Kantrowitz

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4001 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	529 pages

FREE