The Migration of African Americans to the West in the Late 1870s
The late 1870s marked a significant period in American history as African Americans began relocating from the South to the West in search of a better life. This migration, commonly known as the “Exoduster” movement, had a profound impact on the nation’s demographic makeup and played a crucial role in shaping its history.
The Exoduster Movement
The late 1870s saw a surge in African American migration to the West, driven by a desire to escape the oppressive conditions prevailing in the South. This movement became known as the Exoduster movement, a term that symbolized the quest for freedom and a new beginning.
Leaders of the Migration
One prominent figure associated with the Exoduster movement was Benjamin “Pap” Singleton, who earned the moniker “Moses of the Colored Exodus.” In 1873, Singleton led a group of 300 southern Blacks to settle in Cherokee County, Kansas, establishing what later became known as “Singleton’s Colony.” His leadership and example inspired many others to follow suit and seek a better life in the West.
The Destination: Settling in the West
Kansas emerged as the primary destination for the Exodusters, attracting the majority of migrants due to its perceived economic opportunities and relative freedom from racial oppression. However, African Americans also settled in other Western states such as Oklahoma, Colorado, Ohio, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, New Mexico, Arizona, and Montana. These migrants aimed to build new lives and secure a brighter future for themselves and their families.
The Scale of the Migration
The migration of African Americans to the West in the late 1870s was a massive demographic shift. In 1879 alone, over 6,000 Exodusters arrived in Kansas. By the end of the migration in 1880, the state was home to approximately 41,000 African Americans. The sheer numbers illustrate the determination and resolve of these individuals to leave behind the oppressive conditions of the South and seek better opportunities elsewhere.
Assistance and Integration
To support the settlement of the new African American citizens, Kansas Governor John P. St. John established The Freedmen’s Relief Association of Kansas in 1879. This association provided essential assistance, including schools and housing, to help facilitate the integration of the Exodusters into their new communities. These efforts aimed to provide support and resources to ensure a smoother transition and successful settlement for the migrants.
The Long-lasting Impact
The migration of African Americans to the West in the late 1870s left an indelible mark on the United States. This mass movement not only transformed the lives of those involved but also had a lasting impact on the demographic, cultural, and economic landscape of the nation. It represented a significant step towards greater freedom and opportunity for African Americans and contributed to the ongoing struggle for civil rights.
Conclusion
The migration of African Americans to the West in the late 1870s, known as the Exoduster movement, was a pivotal moment in American history. It symbolized the quest for freedom, opportunity, and a better life away from the oppressive conditions prevailing in the South. The determination and resilience of these migrants reshaped the nation, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to influence the country’s narrative.
Sources:
- “Migrations and the Black Experience.” National Archives. Retrieved from https://www.archives.gov/research/african-americans/migrations
- “Moving North, Heading West.” Library of Congress. Retrieved from https://www.loc.gov/classroom-materials/immigration/african/moving-north-heading-west/
- “Exodusters & Western Expansion.” National Archives. Retrieved from https://www.archives.gov/research/african-americans/migrations/exodusters
FAQs
Why did African Americans migrate to the West in the late 1870s?
African Americans migrated to the West in the late 1870s to escape the oppressive conditions and racial discrimination prevalent in the South. They sought better economic opportunities, freedom from racial violence, and the chance to build new lives for themselves and their families.
What was the Exoduster movement?
The Exoduster movement refers to the mass migration of African Americans from the South to the West in the late 1870s. It symbolized their quest for freedom and a new beginning, inspired by the biblical story of Exodus.
Who was Benjamin “Pap” Singleton and what role did he play in the migration?
Benjamin “Pap” Singleton was a prominent leader in the Exoduster movement. Known as the “Moses of the Colored Exodus,” he led a group of 300 southern Blacks to settle in Cherokee County, Kansas, in 1873, establishing what became known as “Singleton’s Colony.” His actions inspired many African Americans to join the migration and seek a better life in the West.
Where did the majority of Exodusters settle?
The majority of Exodusters settled in Kansas, attracted by the perceived economic opportunities and relative freedom from racial oppression. However, many African Americans also settled in other Western states, including Oklahoma, Colorado, Ohio, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, New Mexico, Arizona, and Montana.
How many African Americans migrated to Kansas during this period?
In 1879 alone, more than 6,000 Exodusters arrived in Kansas. By the end of the migration in 1880, Kansas alone was home to approximately 41,000 African Americans. This influx of migrants transformed the demographic makeup of the state.
What assistance was provided to the Exodusters upon their arrival in Kansas?
Kansas Governor John P. St. John created The Freedmen’s Relief Association of Kansas in 1879 to assist with the settlement of African American migrants. The association provided resources such as schools and housing to support the integration of the Exodusters into their new communities.
How many African Americans migrated westward during the late 1870s?
Estimates suggest that between 40,000 to 60,000 African Americans left the South and migrated westward in the late 1870s. This mass movement represented a significant demographic shift and highlighted the determination of African Americans to seek better opportunities and freedom.
What was the long-lasting impact of this migration?
The migration of African Americans to the West in the late 1870s had a lasting impact on the United States. It contributed to the demographic, cultural, and economic transformation of the nation. The Exoduster movement represented a significant step towards greater freedom and opportunity for African Americans and played a part in the ongoing struggle for civil rights.