The Role of Black Women in Southern America The post-Civil War era of the United States led to radical changes in the demographics of its citizens. Reconstruction led to liberal thoughts on the equality of blacks and women. These ideas, although never passed into law, influenced the way minorities had a voice in the government. By the 1920, black men and white women had "equal" rights as citizens, but black women were still treated as though …showed first 75 words of 756 total…

…showed last 75 words of 756 total…have the best place everywhere. Nobody ever helps me into carriages, or over mud-puddles, or gives me any best place! And ain't I a woman?" The speech was given in 1851 and still applied to this novel written over forty years later. Not only were women being treated poorly, but they were allowing themselves to be treated poorly. By the end of this novel, Janie finds her voice and ability to form an evenly balanced relationship.