Question

5.5.2 test (cst): post civil war america
question 8 of 20
what was the first institution fully controlled by blacks that took part in almost every element of southern black life?
a. fraternal organizations
b. historically black colleges and universities
c. the freedmens bureau
d. african american churches

Explanation:

After the Civil War, African American churches played a central role in southern Black life. They were the first institutions fully controlled by Blacks. These churches served as places of worship, but also as community centers for education, social gatherings, and organizing for civil rights. Fraternal organizations were important but not the first. Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) came later. The Freedmen's Bureau was a government - run organization to assist freed slaves, not Black - controlled initially.

Answer:

D. African American churches