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Hardships faced by former slaves during Reconstruction.

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A discussion of the economic and social conditions faced by former slaves in the South during Reconstruction. Specific information discussed includes the topics of education, farming, income, and family life.

Life for former slaves was extremely difficult following the Civil War. During Reconstruction former slaves had total freedom at least in theory. However, they had not received any training in how to life in freedom. From childhood most had been slaves and had all of their daily needs taken care of by the master. They were told where to live, when to wake up, what to do during the day, who they could marry, etc. In many ways their situation mirrors the life of inmates who are set free. Because of spending years behind bars with prison rules regulating all aspects of their lives, they have become institutionalized. Upon being given their freedom, many former inmates describe a feeling of being lost and not knowing how to organize and even live their lives. For the former slaves, the situation was very similar.

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A discussion regarding the social and economic hardships faced by former slaves following the Civil War. How did the turbulent times of Reconstruction affect the families of former slaves? Specifi issues discussed include economic opportunities, education and family life. Over 650 words of original text with links to informative websites.

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Discuss the economic and social conditions of blacks in the South during Reconstruction. Include in your discussion the topics of education, farming, income, and family life.

Life for the Blacks was extremely difficult following the Civil War. During Reconstruction the Blacks had total freedom at least in theory. However, they had not received any training in how to life in freedom. From childhood most had been slaves and had all of their daily needs taken care of by the master. They were told where to live, when to wake up, what to do during the day, who they could marry, etc. In many ways their situation mirrors the life of inmates who are set free. Because of spending years behind bars with prison rules regulating all aspects of their lives, they have become institutionalized. Upon being given their freedom, many former inmates describe a feeling of being lost and not knowing how to organize and even live their lives. For the former slaves, the situation was very similar.

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