Considering the life conditions in which African Americans were supposed to live during 1900, such a treatment is expected. Led by industrialization and related to its migration, many race problems appeared in this period (Locke & Wright, 2020). As far as white politicians took control over the voting polls, black people turned out to be in a deplorable position (Locke & Wright, 2020). Black people were not considered to have equal rights and freedoms compared to white citizens. The aggressiveness of white Americans was represented through lynching. Many African Americans were killed during the 1880s and 1950s using this cruel method (Locke & Wright, 2020). The legislation was also affected by racial presuppositions and prejudices. The lives of African Americans could be described as extremely poor. Based on the legal inquiries, “most of the labor-intensive, low-paying jobs were relegated to African Americans” (Locke & Wright, 2020, p. 18). Black activists tried to stop the racism in legal procedures. However, most African Americans understood that it was potentially life-threatening to declare their rights in everyday life situations which involved racist presuppositions. Actually, many black people had no chance to protect themselves due to the violent actions which were previously discussed.
Based on the described insights on black people’s political and social status, being in the shoes of the African American from the scenario, I would do as the conductor said. It would have been irrational to make the conflict more severe. Considering the scenario, the conductor did not seek a conflict. It is likely that this person had nothing against black people. However, the work responsibilities required him to act this way. Even though it was a direct violation of rights, there was no need to argue because it could lead to significant problems. Thus, if I were that man, I would highlight that the ticket was sold for the exact place I was sitting. I would change my place if the conductor asked me to leave despite this information.
Reference
Locke, J., & Wright, B, C. (2020). The American yawp: A massively collaborative open U.S. history textbook. Stanford University Press.