what was the result of the new south movement in the 1870s and 1880s

1 answer

The New South movement, also known as the "Redeemers" movement, had mixed results in the 1870s and 1880s. While it aimed to modernize the economy and reconcile the South with the rest of the United States after the Civil War, it also sought to maintain white supremacy and limit the rights of African Americans.

1. Economic Development: The New South movement aimed to diversify the Southern economy, which had been primarily agrarian and dependent on slave labor. There were efforts to industrialize and promote industries like textiles, tobacco, and iron production. While some progress was made, the South remained largely agricultural and industrialization was limited.

2. Railroad and Infrastructure Development: There was a push for the construction of railroads, which increased transportation and connectivity within the region. This facilitated economic growth and trade.

3. Political Power: Through various means, including violence and voter suppression tactics like poll taxes and literacy tests, white Democrats regained control over Southern state governments. This led to the rollback of many civil rights gains made during Reconstruction, disenfranchising African Americans and implementing Jim Crow segregation laws.

4. Racial Segregation and White Supremacy: The New South movement solidified white power and discrimination against African Americans. Segregation was enforced, and laws known as "Jim Crow" laws were implemented to racially separate public facilities, education, and housing. This resulted in the marginalization of African Americans and the perpetuation of racial inequality.

Overall, while the New South movement contributed to limited industrialization and infrastructure development in the South, its emphasis on white supremacy and the subjugation of African Americans undermined progress towards equality and justice.