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The first recorded enslaved Africans arrive in Jamestown -
Slavery grows rapidly in the colonies, especially on Southern plantations.
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The thirteen colonies fight Britain for independence. -
The colonies declare independence, stating equality while still excluding enslaved people. -
The Constitution strengthens the nation but counts enslaved people as three-fifths for representation.
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Congress outlaws the importation of enslaved Africans.
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Missouri becomes a slave state and Maine a free state to maintain political balance.
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A stricter Fugitive Slave Act forces free states to help capture escaped enslaved people.
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The Supreme Court rules African Americans are not citizens and Congress cannot ban slavery in territories.
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The Union and Confederacy fight over slavery and states’ rights. -
Lincoln declares enslaved people in Confederate states free.
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The Confederacy surrenders, ending the conflict.
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Slavery is abolished throughout the United States.
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Segregation is legalized under the “separate but equal” doctrine. -
Black residents boycott buses until segregation on public transportation is struck down.
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Civil rights leaders gather to demand equality, highlighted by MLK’s “I Have a Dream” speech. -
This landmark law bans segregation and discrimination based on race, sex, religion, or national origin.