Exodusters: African Americans Moving West 1870s — Reading Comprehension

The Exodusters were African Americans who left the Southern United States in the late 1870s, seeking new lives in the West. After the Civil War and the end of Reconstruction, many Black families faced increasing violence, unfair laws, and a lack of economic opportunity. Southern states passed Black Codes and other laws that limited the rights of African Americans, making it extremely difficult for them to own land, vote, or find fair work.

This migration, known as the Exodus of 1879, was inspired by both hope and desperation. Some African Americans were motivated by stories of fertile land in Kansas and other Western states. Preachers, community leaders, and former soldiers encouraged people to take the risk. However, many white Southerners, including landowners and local officials, opposed the movement. They feared losing cheap labor and tried to stop the migration by spreading rumors or blocking transportation.

The name "Exodusters" comes from the biblical story of Exodus, in which the Israelites escaped slavery in Egypt. For many African Americans, moving West felt like a journey to freedom. They saw Kansas as a "promised land" where they could build independent communities. One Exoduster wrote in a letter, "We are going to Kansas where we can be free and own our own land." This statement shows the powerful desire for autonomy and dignity that drove the migration.

Despite the hope, the journey was extremely difficult. Most Exodusters traveled by foot, wagon, or steamboat. They faced hunger, disease, and the constant threat of violence. Upon arriving in Kansas, many found that the land was not as easy to farm as they had been told. Some white settlers and politicians welcomed the newcomers, seeing them as hardworking citizens. Others saw them as competition and tried to keep them out of jobs or even basic housing. This created a complex situation where Exodusters had to struggle for acceptance and survival.

The Exodusters movement also created conflict within African American communities. Some believed that leaving the South was the only solution to constant oppression. Others argued that staying and fighting for civil rights was more important. These debates showed how African Americans had different strategies for dealing with injustice. Meanwhile, white politicians in the North and South disagreed about whether to help or ignore the migrants. The federal government provided some aid, but not enough to solve the problems Exodusters faced.

The consequences of the Exoduster movement were significant. Thousands of Black families established new towns and churches in Kansas and nearby states. They built schools and businesses, creating a sense of community and pride. However, the challenges of racism, poverty, and environmental hardship continued. The story of the Exodusters shows how American history is shaped by both hope and hardship, by the courage to seek a better life, and by the obstacles that stand in the way.

By analyzing the Exoduster migration, we see that history is rarely simple. It involves choices, conflicts, and competing motivations. The experience of the Exodusters reminds us that freedom is not just given; it is often fought for and built through struggle. Their story is a powerful example of resilience in the face of adversity.

Interesting Fact: Some Exoduster communities, like Nicodemus, Kansas, are still recognized today as important sites of African American history and heritage.

Who were the Exodusters?

What state was a main destination?

When did the Exodus occur?

Why did Exodusters leave the South?

What challenge did Exodusters face?

What does the primary source letter show?

Exodusters were always welcomed in Kansas.

What is the meaning of autonomy?