The Situation Following The Abolition Of Slavery

Question 1

What were the STRENGTHS after the abolition of slavery?

Give 5

Answer 1

• The law guaranteed freedom
• Ex slaves given legal rights as citizens
• Support offered Eg BUREAU OF REFUGEES, FREEDMENS, ABANDONED LANDS
• Military rule in the south ensured these rights
• Abolition deemed morally right by most Americans

Question 2

What were the WEAKNESSES after the abolition of slavery?

Give 4 ideas

Answer 2

• Ex skates disadvantaged by their lack of education
• Most land wasn’t redistributed, so many worked as sharecroppers
• Entrenched attitudes of white supremacy meant that African Americans were limited
• It was difficult to socially implement new laws

Question 3

What were the OPPORTUNITIES following the abolition of slavery?

Answer 3

• Radical republicans were powerful
• Marriages between ex slaves were becoming acceptable
• Continuing strength of the Christian Church
• Were being paid and could use their money freely

Question 4

What were the THREATS following the abolition of slavery?

Answer 4

• Entrenched ideas of white supremacy
• Groups like the KKK
• Due to the depression, most were more concerned by their own financial issues
• Competition for unskilled work between freed slaves and unskilled workers