The Triumph of the Civil Rights Movement in the United States

What were the challenges faced by African Americans in exercising their voting rights in the southern states?

A. Economic discrimination

B. Limited access to education

C. Poll taxes and literacy tests

Answer: C. Poll taxes and literacy tests

The challenges faced by African Americans in exercising their voting rights in the southern states were multifaceted. One major obstacle was the implementation of poll taxes, which required individuals to pay a fee in order to vote. This financial burden disproportionately affected African Americans, who were more likely to be economically disadvantaged due to systemic discrimination.

Furthermore, literacy tests were utilized to prevent African Americans from voting. These tests often included complex and biased questions that were used as a barrier to disenfranchise minority voters. Despite the efforts of the Civil Rights Movement to combat these discriminatory practices, they persisted for many years.

The perseverance and resilience of African Americans, alongside the dedicated activism of civil rights leaders, eventually led to the abolition of these unjust practices and the expansion of voting rights for all Americans. The struggles faced by African Americans in the past serve as a reminder of the importance of upholding democracy and equality for all citizens.