Assignment

Module concentrated on the social consequences of the social construction of race. Describe the actions taken against African Americans to keep them from improving themselves socioeconomically focusing on the period of Reconstruction. How did the South manage to reconstruct slavery? To put it another way, how did Southern white supremacists regain control of Southern governments and institute the imposition of "slavery by another name"? How did the South avoid the consequences of the constitutional amendments and federal laws passed to give rights and protections to Blacks? Finally, say something about what "ideas" (social construction of race) enabled Southerners and/or the government to take these actions (most of which were clearly illegal and discriminatory)?

It would help your response to pick one Southern state and do online research regarding the history of Convict Leasing in that state. So, include some info about convict leasing that pertains to one Southern state; plenty of info on internet. Remember to cite the websites.

I am in a good mood, so I will present an outline for you to follow. Remember always to use notes as a guideline and include readings from CANVAS and provide a complete bibliography.

- Start w/ discussion of the "problems" confronting the South after defeat in Civil War (economically, socially and politically)

- Discuss the treatment of former Confederates by the Federal government

- Discuss the amendments and federal laws aimed at extending and protecting the rights of Blacks

- Discuss how the South circumvented these laws to create "slavery by another name"

- Discuss the nature of this oppressive system (convict leasing, debt peonage, sharecropping)

- Conclusion: Talk about how the social construction of blackness "allowed" for these behaviors and policies to take place.