Why was wilmington nc considered a symbol of black hope at the end of the 19th century?

At the end of the 19th century, Wilmington, North Carolina, emerged as a symbol of Black hope due to its vibrant African American community and the political progress achieved during Reconstruction. The city had a significant number of Black voters and elected officials, leading to advancements in education and civil rights. Wilmington became a hub for Black entrepreneurship and culture, showcasing the potential for African Americans to thrive in a post-Civil War society. However, this hope was tragically undermined by the 1898 Wilmington coup, which violently suppressed Black political power and led to widespread racial violence.