Page 44 - 2022-bfw-white-fomm3e-HS.indd

chapter 9 Reconstruction: The Making and Unmaking of a Revolution

Thomas Nast | Colored Rule in a Reconstructed(?) State, 1874

Project Colored Rule in a Reconstructed(?) State by THOMAS NAST (1840–1902) appeared on the
cover of the March 14, 1874, issue of Harper’s Weekly. This drawing argues that Black
Reconstruction was a tragic mistake owing to black inferiority and incapacity. The cap-
tion reads “The members call each other thieves, liars, rascals, and cowards.” Columbia,
the goddess at the podium under the banner that says “Let us have peace,” is reprimand-
ing the legislators: “You are Aping the lowest Whites. If you disgrace your Race in this
Document way you had better take Back Seats.” Compare this view of black South Carolina legisla-
tors with the images of dignified black men and women in this chapter. Which image or
images make the most powerful impression? Why?

Library of Congress, Prints and Photographs Division, Washington, D.C., LC-USZ62-102256.
364
Copyright ©2021 Bedford/St. Martin's Publishers. Distributed by Bedford/St. Martin's Publishers.
Not for redistribution

10_whitefomm_3e_21015_ch09_322_365.indd 364 8/13/20 4:26 PM