Obstacles to Black Voting Rights in U.S. History

The video discusses various methods used to suppress voting rights, particularly targeting black voters. It covers historical tactics like the 3/5 Compromise, Jim Crow laws, poll taxes, and literacy tests. These methods were designed to disenfranchise black voters and maintain political power in Southern states. Despite the passage of the 15th Amendment and the Civil Rights Act, voter suppression persisted, affecting not only black voters but also Native Americans. The video highlights the ongoing struggle for equal voting rights and the impact of these historical practices.

What was the primary purpose of the 3/5 compromise during the Constitutional Convention?

• To grant voting rights to enslaved people

• To increase Southern states' representation in the House

• To abolish slavery in the Northern states

• To establish a federal tax system

How did Southern states respond to the increased voter turnout of black men after the 15th Amendment?

• By encouraging more black voters

• By implementing poll taxes

• By abolishing Jim Crow laws

• By providing free education

What was a common characteristic of literacy tests used to disenfranchise black voters?

• They were applied equally to all races

• They were often more difficult for black voters

• They were only used in Northern states

• They were uniformly easy for all voters

Which amendment to the Voting Rights Act prohibited the use of literacy tests?

• The 1964 Civil Rights Act

• The 1970 amendment

• The 15th Amendment

• The 19th Amendment

What was the effect of poll taxes and literacy tests on black voters?

• They increased voter turnout

• They ensured fair voting practices

• They disenfranchised black voters

• They were beneficial for minority voters