The statement that best describes a consequence of Reconstruction policies during the 1870s is:
"Reconstruction-era policies often failed to protect African Americans from racial violence and safeguard their political rights."
This reflects the reality that while Reconstruction aimed to promote civil rights and integrate African Americans into society, it often fell short due to systemic racism, violent backlash, and the eventual withdrawal of federal support, which led to widespread disenfranchisement and discrimination.