What was the common name for the series of laws that enforced racial segregation after the Reconstruction era?

The series of laws that enforced racial segregation after the Reconstruction era is commonly known as Jim Crow laws. These laws were enacted in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and mandated the segregation of public spaces, education, transportation, and accommodations based on race. They established a legal framework that supported the systemic discrimination against African Americans, perpetuating a culture of inequality that lasted well into the 20th century.

The term "Jim Crow" originated from a blackface minstrel show character in the 1830s but became synonymous with the oppressive laws and practices that marginalized African Americans in the South and other regions. The impact of these laws was profound, as they not only enforced segregation but also sought to disenfranchise black voters and uphold white supremacy through various means.

In contrast, other options such as the Civil Rights Act and the Voting Rights Act represent legislative efforts aimed at dismantling segregation and discrimination, rather than enforcing it. The Reconstruction Amendments relate to post-Civil War constitutional changes that aimed to secure rights for newly freed slaves but were largely undermined by Jim Crow laws. Understanding Jim Crow laws is crucial to comprehending the historical context of racial relations and the civil rights movement in the United States.