Question

read the excerpt: the power of the ballot we need in sheer defense, else what shall save us from a second slavery? —w e b. du in this passage, what is du bois saying about the importance of voting laws? a. voting laws are important but less important than fighting against slavery. b. the right to vote should be a constitutional amendment just like the right to be free c. african americans will never be free from slavery unless their right to vote is secure. d. had adequate voting laws been in place, slavery could have been prevented.

Explanation:

To solve this, we analyze each option:

• Option A: The quote emphasizes voting as defense against "second slavery", not that it's less important than fighting slavery. Eliminate A.
• Option B: The quote doesn't mention constitutional amendments. Eliminate B.
• Option C: The phrase "what shall save us from a second slavery" implies that secure voting rights (the power of the ballot) are necessary to avoid a return to slavery - meaning African Americans need secure voting rights to be free from slavery. This matches.
• Option D: The quote is about preventing "second slavery" via voting, not preventing original slavery. Eliminate D.

Answer:

C. African Americans will never be free from slavery unless their right to vote is secure.