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War News From Mexico
The microcosm represented in War News From Mexico, painted by Richard Caton Woodville, sheds light on the plight of African Americans before the Reconstruction as they were affected by national events, but were powerless to take part in the discussion. -
The Emancipation Proclamation Goes Into Effect
Abraham Lincoln announces the Emancipation Proclamation in September of the previous year, but it doesn't take effect until four months later. Although the Emancipation Proclamation officially freed all Southern slaves, it did not actually free anyone. -
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Emancipation and the Reconstruction Era
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13th Amendment Passed
The 13th Amendment abolished slavery in the United States and overrode the premise of the 3/5 Compromise. -
The Ku Klux Klan is Formed
The Ku Klux Klan is formed in Pulaski, Tennessee by former Confederate soldiers. Quickly expanded into a unofficial miliatry-like force that worked to undo Reconstruction measures that heightened black rights. -
Black Codes Repealed
The Black Codes, which were state laws that provided basic rights to freed slaves, but denied them other rights, like the right to testify against whites, were repealed when Reconstruction began. -
Reconstruction Acts of 1867
The Reconstruction Acts divided the majority of post-war South into five military districts that were all overseen by a Union general. These acts were later reinforced by related acts that outlined the conditions of readmission for Southern states. -
14th Amendment Passed
Granted citizenship to all people born in the United States with the exception of American Indians. Provided African American men in the South with the right to vote. -
Free
Free, a basswood statue depicting a freed slave with his head bowed and his hands clasped behind his back almost as if they are bound, is created by artist Emma Marie Cadwalader Guild. -
Compromise of 1877
The Compromise of 1877, which was passed by President Hayes, recalled troops from the South and ended Reconstruction. -
An Old Roadway
George Inness paints An Old Roadway, an oil painting depicting an older black women and a young white boy engaging in comfortable conversation alongside a herd of sheep.
