List 3 reasons (1 point for each ) why African-Americans were unable to vote in the late 1800s even after the 15th amendment was ratified. (Hint: Think about strategies that were used to prevent this demographic from voting.)
1) Voter suppression tactics: After the 15th Amendment was ratified, various voter suppression tactics were employed to prevent African-Americans from exercising their right to vote. These included literacy tests, poll taxes, and complex registration procedures. Such measures disadvantaged African-Americans who were often subjected to unfair standards and obstacles to impede their enrollment as voters.
2) Intimidation and violence: African-Americans faced widespread intimidation and violence at the polling stations, particularly in the Southern states. Groups such as the Ku Klux Klan used acts of terror, including lynchings and physical assaults, to deter African-Americans from voting. Fear for their safety and well-being made many African-Americans reluctant to exercise their voting rights.
3) Jim Crow Laws: The introduction of Jim Crow laws further suppressed the African-American vote. These laws mandated racial segregation and enforced racial discrimination in various aspects of life, including voting. By implementing literacy tests and other discriminatory measures aimed at African-Americans, Jim Crow laws helped to maintain and perpetuate racial inequality, denying African-Americans the opportunity to vote.