Black Codes

Real World Example

During the Reconstruction era from 1860 to 1880, Black Codes were laws created by Southern states to control and restrict the freedom of African Americans after the Civil War. These laws aimed to maintain a labor force similar to slavery and limit the rights of freed people, like voting and owning property. They were important because they highlighted the struggle for true equality and justice in post-Civil War America. Today, the legacy of Black Codes can be seen in ongoing racial disparities and systemic discrimination, like in the criminal justice system. For example, racial profiling by law enforcement and unequal sentencing continue to affect African American communities, showing the lasting impact of these historical laws.