The Democratic Party used literacy tests and poll taxes as a means to prevent African-Americans from having an impact on elections.
Literacy tests were written exams that blacks were forced to take and pass in order to vote. These tests were extremely difficult and often had a time limit on them. This was aimed at African-Americans, as many of them did not have formal schooling due to their previous status as slaves.
Poll taxes included a set amount of money a person would have to pay in order to vote. This was also aimed at African-Americans, as many of them did not make enough wages to pay this fee.