African Americans during the Reconstruction Era likely felt both victorious and disconcerted. Before the Civil War, slaves vehemently hoped that freedom would entitle them to equal status in American society, but to their surprise, their dream of an egalitarian America was hindered after the assassination of President Lincoln. Their lives have become radically different and difficult in a time increasingly contrary to their wishes. The end of the Civil War brought social, moral, economic, and political changes within the historical context of Florida's history. History books have, in general, described Florida as the most progressive Southern state in American history, particularly when considering Florida's legislation toward former slaves. But it's not that simple. After extensive research, it is irrevocably evident that textbooks underestimate the role played by African Americans. Whether or not this is true is up for debate. It is undeniable that since the colonization of Florida, it has been a haven of freedom and liberation for the black man. Slaves were fleeing their plantations across the border in Florida. Many integrated with the native indigenous tribes who called the land home. After Florida separated from Spain for America following the Seminole Wars of the 19th century, slaves could no longer seek safety among the natives. Nonetheless, from this ideological paradigm, Florida has been considered a relatively progressive state throughout history, even during antebellum America. However, after the Civil War, this couldn't be further from the truth. During the Reconstruction Era, America, and Florida with it, experienced difficult changes for African Americans; changes in education, federal as...... middle of paper ...... alleviating problems within the ex-slave community. Promising education, economic aid, and other civic benefits, including transporting former slaves to and from their jobs and negotiating contracts with plantation owners on behalf of former slaves. African Americans took up education as if it were their divine duty. According to Joe M. Richardson, in November 1866, as many as 5,226 former slaves were attending 35 day schools, 30 evening schools, and more than 60 Sunday schools learning under the jurisdiction of the Freedmen's Bureau. Interestingly, there were more Sunday schools than others. This can tell us several things, including that Sunday may have been the only day available for many former slaves to attend classes due to agricultural plantations. Second, it shows us that religious institutions were important not only for practical purposes, but also for education..