in my reconstruction era
The Reconstruction Era marked a critical time in American history and not just the rebuilding of our country after the end of a brutal conflict. It spanned from 1865 to 1877 following the Civil War, a war set to abolish slavery and reunify a divided nation. Reconstruction was a time of physical and social rebuilding, and its impact on Black culture and American History is often overshadowed and understated.
The emancipation and release of millions of enslaved Black people is one of the most noticeable outcomes we see today from the efforts of the Civil War. The 13th Amendment abolished slavery, and with its newfound liberty, Reconstruction gave birth to a vibrant and resilient Black culture celebrating a suppressed rich heritage while forging a new identity in a changing America.
Black Americans thrived during Reconstruction. It made Black Wall Street in the Greenwood area of Tulsa, Oklahoma. We actively participated in politics; Black men even gained the right to vote, and many were elected to public office. Reconstruction is responsible for Hiram Revels, the first Black US Senator and other trailblazers who paved the way for future Black leaders. Education also played a crucial role in shaping the future of Black culture at this time. Freedmen's schools and institutions were established to educate Black children and adults, creating the HBCU structure we know today. This newfound access to knowledge laid the foundation for developing the well educated Black middle class. It contributed to the growth of Black culture and intellectual achievements. Naturally, Black entrepreneurs seized opportunities to establish and build economic independence. Reconstruction saw the debut of Black Owned Businesses! These businesses would later become vital pillars of the Black community and contributors to the nation's economy.
As impressive as all this liberty for Black Americans was, it had its challenges. Reconstruction witnessed the rise of white supremacy and the birth of the Ku Klux Klan. It brought the emergence of a new racism from those who hated to see the rise of Black Americans. Reconstruction brought Black Codes and the inevitable rollback of civil rights and marked a depressing and dark turn in American history. This new denial of rights, privilege, and liberty would echo through decades, bringing us new leaders and, inevitably, the Civil Rights Movement. It would take us almost another 100 years before Black Americans would know what it takes to be whole in this country.
I need more people to talk about Reconstruction. The world should know America had its first Black senator before it was deemed appropriate, mainly because it seems so farfetched for America. While a new nation of ashamed Americans works to veil hundreds of years of hate, I'll be ensuring those I touch are reminded of remarkable contributions every chance I get. As a Black American in today's America, I'm reminded of the Reconstruction Era and its effects on us everywhere, including the ongoing struggles. I'm reminded most, however, when understanding the impact this era continues to provide and how it is essential to appreciate resilience, strength, and contributions Black people give to the fabric of our nation's history and our imprint on the rest of the world.