s the conditions which
caused the exodus are the same in both of these States, we may
speak of them together. No single act of wrong has inspired this
movement, but a long series of oppression, injustice, and
violence, extending over a period of fifteen years. These people
have been long-suffering and wonderfully patient, but the time
came when they could endure it no longer and they resolved to go.
We can convey no adequate idea of what they endured before
adopting this desperate resolve, but will mention a few facts
drawn from well authenticated history, from sworn public
documents, and from the evidence taken by the Exodus
Investigating Committee. Writing under date of January 10, 1875,
General P. H. Sheridan, then in command at New Orleans, says:

Since the year 1866 nearly thirty-five hundred persons, a great
majority of whom were colored men, have been killed and wounded
in this State. In 1868 the official records show that eighteen
hundred and eighty-five were killed and wounded. From 1868 to the
present time no official investigation has been made, and the
civil authorities in all but a few cases have been unable to
arrest, convict or punish the perpetrators. Consequently there
are no correct records to be consulted for information. There is
ample evidence, however, to show that more than twelve hundred
persons have been killed and wounded during this time on account
of their political sentiments. Frightful massacres have occurred
in the parishes of Bossier, Caddo, Catahoula, Saint Bernard,
Saint Landry, Grant, and Orleans.

He then proceeds to enumerate the political murders of colored
men in the various parishes, and says:

"Human life in this State is held so cheaply that when men are
killed on account of political opinions, the murderers are
regarded rather as heroes than criminals in the localities where
they reside."

This brief summary is not by a politician, but by a distinguished
soldier, who recounts the events which have occurred within his
own military jurisdiction. Volumes of testimony have since been
taken confirming, in all respects, General Sheridan's statement,
and giving in detail the facts relating to such murders, and the
times and circumstances of their occurrence. The results of the
elections which