In 1872 how did the lives of slaves differ from those of the free in the US?

In 1872, the lives of enslaved people in the United States were marked by forced labor, lack of personal freedom, and systemic oppression, as slavery had only recently been abolished in 1865 with the 13th Amendment. In contrast, free individuals enjoyed legal rights, the ability to choose their work, and greater autonomy in their daily lives. However, even free Black people faced significant discrimination, violence, and limited opportunities, underscoring the ongoing struggles for equality and civil rights in a society still grappling with the legacies of slavery.