4. Convict Leasing: Slavery by Another Name
Following the abolition of slavery, Southern states quickly turned to convict leasing as a means to maintain forced Black labor. Under this system, prisoners—overwhelmingly Black men—were leased to private companies, enduring grueling, dangerous work and horrific conditions. Effectively, convict leasing re-enslaved thousands, generating revenue for states and perpetuating racial oppression. For more on the convict leasing system, visit PBS: Slavery by Another Name.
