Poll taxes were a form of voter suppression imposed by states in the United States, particularly in the Southern states, as a way to disenfranchise Black voters. These taxes required individuals to pay a fee in order to vote, which disproportionately affected African Americans who were often impoverished due to systemic racism and lack of economic opportunities.

Poll taxes were used as a tool to prevent Black citizens from exercising their right to vote, as many could not afford to pay the tax. This discriminatory practice persisted for many years, with some states implementing poll taxes as early as the late 19th century and continuing into the mid-20th century.

The 24th Amendment to the United States Constitution, ratified in 1964, outlawed the use of poll taxes in federal elections. However, it was not until the Supreme Court case Harper v. Virginia Board of Elections in 1966 that poll taxes were declared unconstitutional in all elections, both federal and state.

The abolition of poll taxes was a significant victory in the civil rights movement, as it helped to pave the way for greater political participation and representation for African Americans in the United States.