What was the primary goal of the Freedmen's Bureau?

The primary goal of the Freedmen's Bureau was to assist former enslaved individuals in transitioning to freedom. Established in 1865, shortly after the Civil War, the Freedmen's Bureau aimed to provide support to millions of freed slaves who were navigating the challenges of newfound liberty. This organization offered various forms of assistance, including food, housing, healthcare, and legal help, addressing the immediate needs of those who had been emancipated.

One of the critical challenges faced by formerly enslaved individuals was the lack of resources and opportunities to integrate into society. By focusing on helping these individuals make the transition to freedom, the Freedmen's Bureau played a significant role in shaping the post-war South. This was a time when many former slaves were unsure of their status and rights, so the Bureau's efforts were crucial in helping them establish themselves as productive members of society.

While establishing schools and promoting agricultural reform were important aspects of the Bureau's activities, they were part of the broader mission to support the transition of freedmen rather than primary goals in themselves. Documenting former slaves' contributions to the economy was not a core function of the Bureau, which concentrated more on practical assistance and integration rather than historical record-keeping.