According to Hughes and Cain (2011), after the Civil War (1861–1865)

According to Hughes and Cain (2011), after the Civil War (1861–1865) the freed slaves were

(a) left to fend for themselves without property, money or skills.
(b) provided with 40 acres and a mule to get a start in life as free people.
(c) provided with some monetary compensation for the centuries-long oppression
and exploitation they and their ancestors had faced.
(d) able to quickly become successful farmers and craftsmen.

ANSWER

(a)