Jim Crow

Eight Box Law

A law in South Carolina that required voters to place their ballots in corresponding boxes without assistance, making it challenging for Black voters.

Poll Tax

A fee that must be paid before voting, disproportionately affecting poorer Black citizens.

Grandfather Clause

A law requiring individuals to prove their father or grandfather had voted before 1867 to be eligible to vote, exempting many white voters from restrictions.

Plessy vs. Ferguson

A landmark Supreme Court case that upheld the 'separate but equal' doctrine, ruling against Homer Plessy who challenged Louisiana's segregation laws.

Racial Etiquette

Unwritten rules governing social interactions between Blacks and Whites, which often denied respect to Black adults.

Social Darwinism

A misapplication of Darwin's theory suggesting that societal success indicates superiority, justifying social and economic inequalities.

Palmer Raids

Government actions in the early 20th century that deported individuals considered threats to national security, reflecting xenophobia.

Scientific Racism

A pseudoscientific approach that legitimized racial hierarchies and led to discriminatory immigration policies.

The Birth of a Nation

A 1915 film that portrayed the KKK as heroes and reinforced racist stereotypes, endorsed by President Woodrow Wilson.