Why did Southern states use poll taxes, literacy tests, and grandfather clauses as Reconstruction came to an end?(1 point)
Responses
to maintain Republican control of state governments
to maintain Republican control of state governments
to keep poor white Southerners from voting
to keep poor white Southerners from voting
to keep African Americans from voting
to keep African Americans from voting
Correct answer: to keep African Americans from voting
During Reconstruction, Southern states implemented these measures to disenfranchise African Americans and maintain white supremacy. Poll taxes, literacy tests, and grandfather clauses were all used to restrict the voting rights of African Americans, while also targeting poor white voters who may also have difficulty meeting these requirements. These tactics were part of a broader effort to uphold white power and prevent African Americans from participating in the political process.