History of African Americans in Kansas
African Americans have a long and important history in Kansas. African Americans have been in Kansas since the 1840s, when they traveled from the South to the state looking for a better life due to slavery. African Americans fought for civil rights in Kansas during the years of reconstruction, resulted in the First Kansas Colored Infantry becoming the country's first African American military unit. They were also influential in the establishment of the all-black towns of Mound City and Nicodemus. African Americans faced Jim Crow laws and the denial of voting rights in Kansas in the late 19th century.
In the 20th century, African Americans in Kansas helped to organize the Civil Rights Movement in the state. African Americans faced tough segregation laws, but they had success in challenging laws such as the segregation of public schools. During this time, African Americans also faced restrictions in public transportation, voting rights, and employment opportunities. African Americans were also influential in Kansas politics, voting overwhelmingly for Democratic candidates in national elections.
Today, African Americans are still active in Kansas and make up about 5.4% of the state’s population. African Americans have made major contributions to Kansas culture, from music to poetry. African Americans continue to make an impact in the state by advocating for social justice and civil rights.
In the 20th century, African Americans in Kansas helped to organize the Civil Rights Movement in the state. African Americans faced tough segregation laws, but they had success in challenging laws such as the segregation of public schools. During this time, African Americans also faced restrictions in public transportation, voting rights, and employment opportunities. African Americans were also influential in Kansas politics, voting overwhelmingly for Democratic candidates in national elections.
Today, African Americans are still active in Kansas and make up about 5.4% of the state’s population. African Americans have made major contributions to Kansas culture, from music to poetry. African Americans continue to make an impact in the state by advocating for social justice and civil rights.