What can be inferred by the passage of the black codes?
• Many southerners were willing to allow African Americans equality.
• Many white Southerners wanted African American to remain as servants.
• Many white Southerners wanted African Americans to receive an equal education.
• Southern lawmakers wanted “separate but equal” rights.
Many white Southerners wanted African Americans to remain as servants.
Based on the provided options, the inference that can be made from the passage of the black codes is that many white Southerners wanted African Americans to remain as servants.
To infer the most likely answer based on the passage of the black codes, we would need to analyze the historical context and purpose of these codes. The black codes were laws enacted in the southern states after the American Civil War to restrict the rights and freedom of African Americans. They were intended to maintain white supremacy and control over former slaves.
Given this context, the second option, "Many white Southerners wanted African Americans to remain as servants," is the most reasonable inference. The black codes aimed to reinforce a racial hierarchy by restricting the economic and social mobility of African Americans and ensuring their continued subservience to the white population.
Inferences can be drawn by analyzing historical documents, contexts, and motivations. It's important to use critical thinking skills and consider the broader implications and historical context when making inferences.