Introduction
As part of this assignment, I familiarized myself with a number of works discussing the various struggles of Black Americans. This included a discussion on Jim Crow and people’s lives in its years, as well as a quick review of the Reconstruction period. In order to critically engage with the material, I will attempt to summarize the information within and then discuss how it changed my own perceptions.
The “Reconstruction: The Vote” Video
First, I would like to consider the video “Reconstruction: The Vote | Black History in Two Minutes (or so)”. As indicated by the name, this mini-documentary is focused on the subject of the Reconstruction period, which happened right after the American Civil War (Black History in Two Minutes or so, 2019). The authors consider reconstruction to be a particularly interesting time, as it sets a precedent for the existence of equal rights in America far earlier than the post-Jim Crow era and the Civil Rights Movement.
Black people in post-war America enjoyed a level of freedom and influence very close to their white counterparts. In particular, black voting became a keystone of influence for the African-American population. Segregation was not yet in place, and black politicians could legally become senators, advocating for the rights and needs of their communities. This process enabled more black people to find opportunities in life and build wealth. However, this period abruptly ended, and most of the rights granted to the black population were rolled back. By 1901, the last vestiges of influence African Americans had on politics were over, and most of the progress made during this time was undone.
“The Rise and Fall of Jim Crow: Episode 2”
The other two sources focus primarily on the Jim Crow era or the time of Black American segregation. Episode 2 of PBS’s “The Rise and Fall of Jim Crow” covers the start of the Jim Crow era, the creation of legal justifications for segregation, and the white violence designed to keep the black population subservient. While slavery was no longer legal, African Americans were systematically persecuted and incarcerated, subjecting them to forced labor for profit (PBS, 2016). For those who were still free, daily life remained a struggle to survive within a hostile society. Media portrayals and legal action both sought to solidify African-Americans’ position as inferior, justifying control and brutality.
The “Hard-Working People in the Depths of Segregation” Document
In the “Hard-Working People in the Depths of Segregation” reading, the plights of black people in this period are further highlighted. In particular, the text focuses on the work performed by this group. It is noted that the majority of Black people worked in all kinds of fields, applying the skills they acquired during slavery or mastering new ones (Hard-Working People in the Depths of Segregation, 1896-ca. 1919, n.d). Women, children, and the elderly also worked in a much larger capacity than their white counterparts. Work remained a tool for gaining status and proving the “worth” of a black individual to society. In a way, it was an attempt to earn better treatment and more extensive rights, as well as a way to make a living. Living amongst white supremacy, the black population found solace in the sense of community and religion.
Conclusion
After considering all of these materials, I think that my perspective on the struggles of Black Americans was broadened. I had prior knowledge of mass black incarceration, Jim Crow laws, and discrimination black people endured. However, the political strides of the reconstruction era were something I was not knowledgeable about. It confirmed my existing thoughts regarding civil rights movements and political advocacy. I think that the erosion of black civil freedoms after the Reconstruction period showcases that the fight for equality is constant. Those struggling for their place in the world must stay vigilant at all times, lest their hard-earned rights be taken away by the oppression of white supremacy or patriarchy.
References
Black History in Two Minutes or so. (2019). Reconstruction: The Vote | Black History in Two Minutes (or so) [Video]. YouTube. Web.
Hard-Working People in the Depths of Segregation, 1896-ca. 1919. (n.d.).
PBS. (2016). The Rise and Fall of Jim Crow | PBS | ep 2 of 4 Fighting Back [Video]. YouTube. Web.