Final answer:
Leading up to the Civil War, the life of free black Americans changed with restrictions on civil rights and limited opportunities for education and employment. These changes were driven by the fear among white Southerners that the liberation of black Americans could threaten the institution of slavery. Despite the challenges, free black Americans persevered and actively fought against inequality.
Step-by-step explanation:
Life of Free Black Americans Leading up to the Civil War
Leading up to the Civil War, the life of free black Americans changed significantly. They faced increasing restrictions on their civil rights, limited opportunities for education and employment, and heightened racial discrimination. For example, some states passed laws known as Black Codes, which aimed to keep free black Americans in a subordinate position by restricting their movements, labor choices, and access to education.
These changes occurred due to the growing tensions over slavery and the fear among white Southerners that the liberation of black Americans could pose a threat to the institution of slavery. With the rise of the abolitionist movement and the growing sectional conflict, many white Americans sought to further racially segregate and subordinate free black Americans.
Despite these challenging circumstances, free black Americans persevered and fought against inequality. They established schools, churches, and community organizations to support their communities, and some even became active participants in the abolitionist movement.
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