Written by Background
The end of the American Civil War in 1865 brought a new era in the United States: Reconstruction (1865-1877). The federal government worked to reintegrate Southern states and secure rights for newly freed African Americans. During this time, three landmark amendments were passed:
- The 13th Amendment (1865) abolished slavery.
- The 14th Amendment (1868) granted citizenship and equal protection under the law.
- The 15th Amendment (1870) prohibited voting discrimination based on race.
However, in practice, African Americans still faced rampant discrimination, particularly in public spaces such as hotels, theaters, and transportation. White supremacists in the South passed “Black Codes” and later Jim Crow laws, enforcing racial segregation and denying Black Americans basic rights.
Senator Charles Sumner, a staunch abolitionist from Massachusetts, proposed legislation that would ensure African Americans had equal access to public accommodations. Sumner fought tirelessly for years to get the bill passed, facing immense opposition.
What Happened?
On March 1, 1875, President Ulysses S. Grant signed the Civil Rights Act of 1875, prohibiting racial discrimination in public accommodations, public transportation, and jury service. It was one of the most progressive laws of its time, intended to enforce the protections granted by the 14th Amendment.
However, the law lacked strong enforcement measures, and many Southern states ignored it. In 1883, the U.S. Supreme Court declared it unconstitutional, arguing that Congress had no authority to regulate private businesses. This devastating ruling paved the way for Jim Crow laws, which segregated Black and white Americans for the next 80 years.
Impact for the Future
Although short-lived, the Civil Rights Act of 1875 became a foundation for future civil rights legislation. It was frequently referenced during the Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 1960s, leading to the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which finally outlawed racial discrimination in public places. The 1875 Act was ahead of its time, and its failure only emphasized the long struggle for racial equality in the U.S.