Black Reconstruction in Norfolk, Virginia, 1861-1870: the struggle for change

This thesis examines the role of blacks during Reconstruction in Norfolk, Virginia. The years of Reconstruction in Norfolk were years of dramatic change for blacks. Blacks seized the opportunity to exercise control over their own lives and pushed for equality with whites in economic, social, and political realms. This study shows Norfolk blacks were active agents whose actions shaped the course of Reconstruction in their city.