What can be inferred by the passage of the black codes

Question

A) many southerners were willing to allow African Americans equality
B) many whites southern Nurse wanted African-Americans to remain as servants
C) many white southerners, wanted African-Americans to receive an equal education
D) southern lawmakers wanted separate, but equal rights

Answer 1

D) southern lawmakers wanted separate, but equal rights

The passage of the black codes indicates that southern lawmakers were enacting laws that aimed to maintain white supremacy and control over African Americans, rather than granting them full equality or rights. These laws sought to restrict the freedom and opportunities of African Americans in the South, indicating a desire for separate but not equal treatment.