Jim Crow Laws
The segregation and disenfranchisement laws known as “Jim Crow” represented a formal, codified system of racial apartheid that dominated the American South for three quarters of a century. The laws affected almost every aspect of daily life, mandating segregation of schools, parks, libraries, drinking fountains, restrooms, buses, trains, and restaurants. “Whites Only” and “Colored” signs were constant reminders of the enforced racial order.
The name “Jim Crow” comes from an African-American character in a song from 1832. After the song came out, the term “Jim Crow” was often used to refer to African-Americans and soon the segregation laws became known as “Jim Crow” laws.
Watch & Learn
Jim Crow
1838 – Thomas Dartmouth Rice, a struggling white actor, became famous by performing in blackface makeup as “Jim Crow,” an exaggerated, highly stereotypical black character.
Segregation
Interesting Links
American History – Jim Crow Laws
