Reconstruction Era Overview

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to the Reconstruction Era following the Civil War, focusing on the political figures, legislative measures, and societal impacts during this significant period in American history.

Reconstruction

The period of rebuilding the United States after the Civil War, focusing on reintegrating Southern states into the Union.

Andrew Johnson

Lincoln's vice president who assumed the presidency after Lincoln's assassination and had a controversial approach to Reconstruction.

10% Plan

Lincoln's reconstruction proposal stating that a Southern state could rejoin the Union if 10% of its voters pledged allegiance to the Union.

Malice

Ill will; hatred. Lincoln emphasized 'malice toward none' as part of his reunification approach.

Radical Republicans

A faction of the Republican Party that advocated for the rights of African Americans and sought harsher policies for the Southern states post-Civil War.

Civil Rights Act of 1866

The first law to establish citizenship for African Americans, providing them with rights.

Black Codes

Laws passed in the South after the Civil War to restrict the freedoms of African Americans, effectively maintaining some aspects of slavery.

Thirteenth Amendment

The constitutional amendment that abolished slavery in the United States.

Secession

The act of a state withdrawing from the Union; a central issue leading to the Civil War.

John Wilkes Booth

The actor who assassinated President Abraham Lincoln.