Reconstruction Era Flashcards

Flashcards about the Reconstruction Era after the American Civil War

What were Black Codes?

Black codes were restrictive laws designed to limit the freedom of formerly enslaved people and ensure their availability as a cheap labor force after the Civil War.

Who was Andrew Johnson?

He became president after Lincoln's assassination; he was a Southern Democrat, racist, and supported slavery, leading to conflicts during Reconstruction.

How did Johnson view the Civil War?

Johnson viewed it as illegal, believing the South never truly left and should be easily reinstated.

What actions did Johnson take in the first two years of his presidency regarding the South?

Johnson tried to reinstate slavery and hold elections favorable to the South, but Congress resisted, leading to conflicts over Reconstruction policies.

What did the Moderates in Congress want regarding Reconstruction?

They wanted laws to be equal but did not want to address the economic disparities between the North and South.

How did Congress limit Johnson's power during Reconstruction?

Congress overrode Johnson's vetoes and passed laws to control the executive branch, ultimately leading to Johnson's impeachment trial.

Why did Congress impeach Andrew Johnson?

They accused Johnson of misconduct after he tried to remove a cabinet member without Congress's approval.

What was the goal of Radical Reconstruction?

It aimed to establish racial equality in the South after the Civil War.

Who was Thaddeus Stevens?

Thaddeus Stevens, a radical Republican, advocated for a South based on racial equality and the passage of the 13th, 14th, and 15th Amendments.

What did the 13th Amendment do?

Abolished slavery.

What are the key provisions of the 14th Amendment?

Anyone born in the United States is a citizen and that states cannot enforce laws that infringe upon the rights and privileges of citizens.

How did President Grant approach Reconstruction?

He championed and defended black rights and voting rights during his presidency and fought against groups like the Klu Klux Klan.

What was the outcome of Plessy vs. Ferguson?

Ruled that segregation was legal, leading to the erosion of freedoms for African Americans.

Who were Tilden?

Democrats who won the election but were contested by Hayes, leading to disputes over delegates and voting irregularities.

Who were Carpetbaggers?

Northerners who moved to the South after the Civil War to participate in Reconstruction governments or business ventures.

Who were Scalawags?

White Southerners who cooperated with Reconstruction efforts.

What was lynching during the Reconstruction era?

White mobs killing black people without facing legal consequences was common.