jul 1, 1865 - Start of Black Codes

Description:

After abolition, Southern states passed a bunch of laws dictating the social and political abilities of black citizens. Forced to give the right to marry, own property, make contracts, but denied many other rights. Couldn't serve on juries or in militias, testify against white people. Established vagrancy laws which allowed police to arrest or fine who couldn't prove they were employed with the proper paperwork. If they couldn't pay the fine, sheriffs had the right to hire out the prisoner to anyone who would pay it. Basically a slavery loophole.

Added to timeline:

Date: