Literacy tests are assessments designed to measure a person's reading and writing skills. They often include tasks such as reading passages, answering questions, and writing short essays. These tests can be used in educational settings to evaluate student progress or in various professional contexts to ensure employees have the necessary communication skills. Historically, literacy tests were also used in the United States, particularly during the Jim Crow era, to restrict voting rights for African Americans. These tests were often unfairly administered, with difficult questions and subjective grading, leading to widespread discrimination and disenfranchisement.