History of Oppression and Discrimination of African America

 
The history of oppression and discrimination of African Americans is long and complicated. African Americans have been subjected to slavery, Jim Crow laws, mass incarceration, and police brutality, among other forms of discrimination. The first Africans to be brought to the Americas were brought to the Spanish colony of Santo Domingo in the 15th century. These Africans were brought against their will and were forced to work in the plantations (Williams-Washington & Mills 2018). In the 16th century, the first Africans were brought to the English colonies in North America. These Africans were also brought against their will and were forced to work in the plantations.

The English colonies were less tolerant of racial differences than the Spanish ones. The English colonies had laws designed to separate blacks and whites. These laws were called the slave codes. The slave codes were designed to keep blacks in a state of slavery. The American Revolution was a turning point for African Americans. After the American Revolution, many of the former colonies became states. These states began to pass laws that abolished slavery. In 1787, the US Constitution was ratified (Williams-Washington & Mills 2018). The US Constitution included the Fugitive Slave Clause, which allowed for the return of runaway slaves to their owners.

In the 19th century, African Americans struggled to find their place in American society. African Americans were not treated as equal to whites. They were subjected to Jim Crow laws, which were laws that kept blacks and whites separate. African Americans were also discriminated against in the workforce. They were paid less than whites for the same work. In the 20th century, African Americans made great strides. The Civil Rights Movement led to the end of Jim Crow laws. African Americans were also able to gain equality in the workforce. However, African Americans still faced discrimination. They were often the victims of police brutality. They were also disproportionately incarcerated. The 21st century has seen some progress for African Americans. The election of Barack Obama, the first African American president, was a milestone. However, African Americans still face discrimination (Williams-Washington & Mills 2018). They are still the victims of police brutality. They are also still disproportionately incarcerated.