Reconstruction's Lessons

In the current moment in legal struggle for racial equality United States, nation seems at risk of repeating its history. The Roberts Court has failed to fulfill charge under Reconstruction amendments vigorously promote and enforce civil rights protections, other branches government have proved ineffectual or unwilling step into breach. racist far right is rising national electorate appears unable organize favor justice priorities. recognition these partial analogies between conditions then now, this Article mines history aftermath lessons pertinent today. It asks what activists scholars might glean from that help them grow their tally gains shrink losses despite today’s less than ideal political conditions. What teaches prescription doctrinal manipulation alone will not bring about greater equality; having learned lesson Reconstruction’s history, should direct efforts towards exploring new approaches be effective optimal