4 discussion questions .. 3 student responses

HIS105: American History After 1865

Part 1: Post a Response

During the Reconstruction Era, the Southern states created many laws and policies of their own. These “Black Codes” either tried to minimize federal laws and policies or were in retaliation to them.

Suppose you were a former slave during this era, which one of the following restrictions would you find the most offensive?

1. Restrictions or prohibitions on voting

2. Restrictions such as those on job, land purchase, and mobility

3. Inability to serve on juries or accuse a white person in court

Then, in a full paragraph or two:

· Discuss the immediate and long-term consequences from your chosen restriction.

· Identify any lessons we can learn today from this restriction and its impact.

· Identify the source(s) where you read about the restriction.

Reference Material

Week 1 Learn materials: Mississippi example of “Black Codes”

Chapter 16 (p. 294-5)

An Example: Black Codes in Mississippi: http://web.mit.edu/21h.102/www/Primary%20source%20collections/Reconstruction/Black%20codes.htm

Part 2: Respond to a Peer

Read a post by one of your peers (below) and respond, making sure to extend the conversation by asking questions, offering rich ideas, or sharing personal connections.

Terrell Johnson

RE: Week 1 Discussion

Hey Class!

The restrictions that I would find most offensive as a slave would be prohibitions on voting. I say that because you already pretty much dont have any rights as a slave. So not being able to vote means, you wouldn't have any say so on changes being made to your freedom. At the very least i would want my voice or vote to be heard so that i can try to get freedom. The immediate consequences of restrictions of not being able to vote is continuing slavery, no equality and no changes being made to get rid of the restrictions. Some of the lessons we learn today is honoring the right to vote and understanding how long it took to be able to vote. Once you understand how far you come you will develop a deeper appreciation for the right to vote.

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