Last week in class we discussed the Black Codes (1865-1866) and their relation to money, political power, culture/ religion, emotions, and isms. It became clear to our classes that this system (Black Codes/ Jim Crow) truly was "slavery without chains" and that as many believed it was "worse than slavery".
Possibly the worst pledge of freedom was Special Field Order No. 15 aka the "40 Acres and a Mule" promise. On the Sea Islands of Georgia, the Freedmen were farming, starting schools, and building free settlements under the direction of Tunis Campbell. But, the old masters were determined to get their land back and were granted their petition by POTUS Andrew Johnson. Johnson forced General Oliver O. Howard (using African-American troops) to confiscate the lands and return them to the Rebels...General Howard:
I'd endeavored to explain the wishes of the President, and with one voice they cried,
"NO! NO!"
In the noise and confusion, a sweet-voiced Negro woman began the hymn,
"Nobody knows the trouble I feel...nobody knows but Jesus..."
The remarkable, anonymous, and unwavering strength of millions to persevere, fight, and survive against racist betrayal...hostility...violence...indifference...empty words, etc. is inexplicable. Why and how could they continue to work, sing, pray, love, build families, etc.?
My best answer...their belief in God, each other, and us. They were fighting for a future they knew they might not ever see...a future where "All Men Are Created Equal" are not just empty words on a piece of paper!
"We repeat, therefore, that we are here; and that this is our country...We shall neither die out, nor be driven out; but shall go on with this people (white people), either as a testimony against them, or as an evidence in their favor throughout their generations. We are clearly on their hands."
-Frederick Douglass
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