The Compromise of 1877 was a pivotal moment in American history, resolving the contested 1876 presidential election by granting Rutherford B. Hayes the presidency. In return, Hayes promised to withdraw federal troops from Southern states. This decision marked the conclusion of the Reconstruction era, during which federal protections were established to support African American rights.

With the removal of these protections, Southern Democrats regained control and were able to dismantle many of the democratic rights that had been gained, leading to the establishment of an effective single-party rule. This shift had profound implications for the political landscape in the South and signaled a retreat from the advances made during Reconstruction.