how was south carolinas constitution of 1868 different from earlier versions
The Constitution of South Carolina in 1868, which followed the end of the Civil War and Reconstruction, drastically differed from earlier versions in several key ways:
1. Universal male suffrage: The constitution granted voting rights to all adult males, regardless of race or previous status as enslaved individuals. This was a significant departure from the earlier versions which only allowed white male landowners to vote.
2. Equal protection under the law: The Constitution of 1868 provided for equal protection under the law for all citizens, regardless of race. This was a direct response to the discriminatory practices of the previous constitutions, which had upheld slavery and segregation.
3. Provision for public education: The 1868 constitution included a provision for public education, ensuring that all children in the state had access to free and equal schooling. This was a departure from earlier versions which did not prioritize public education.
4. Increased rights for African Americans: The Constitution of 1868 granted African Americans the right to serve on juries, hold public office, and receive equal protection under the law. This was a significant change from the earlier versions which had denied these rights to African Americans.
Overall, the Constitution of South Carolina in 1868 represented a more inclusive and progressive document that sought to establish equality and civil rights for all citizens, regardless of race.