African Americans as voters and elected officials
Blacks gained suffrage rights after the 15th Amendment was passed. African-American men registered to vote for the first time. About 90% of them supported the Republican Party. Slaves were also very enthusiastic to utilize their voting rights. A total of 265 black delegates were elected.
Many Black leaders gained their freedom during the Civil War by a late master or buying themselves their freedom. Many leaders came from the church which was a prominent cornerstone of African American society. For example, Hiram Revels was the first black Senator..
Freed slaves did have the opportunity to be leaders, but they were still in the minority. They were excited to use their voting rights but these rights were soon limited by the Supreme Court.
Many Black leaders gained their freedom during the Civil War by a late master or buying themselves their freedom. Many leaders came from the church which was a prominent cornerstone of African American society. For example, Hiram Revels was the first black Senator..
Freed slaves did have the opportunity to be leaders, but they were still in the minority. They were excited to use their voting rights but these rights were soon limited by the Supreme Court.