Reconstruction Era (1865-1877)

These flashcards cover key concepts, events, and legislation from the Reconstruction era following the Civil War.

What was the main purpose of Reconstruction after the Civil War?

To rebuild the South physically and reconstruct the nation philosophically, ensuring the end of slavery and the union's permanence.

What were the two certainties established after the Civil War ended at Appomattox?

1. Slavery will end. 2. The nation is indivisible.

Who were the two main political parties during the Reconstruction era?

The Democrats and the Republicans.

What was the 10% Plan?

Lincoln's plan that allowed Southern states to rejoin the Union once 10% of voters from the 1860 election swore allegiance to the Union and accepted abolition.

What did radical Republicans believe regarding Southern whites and freed slaves?

They wanted to punish Southern whites and give land and voting rights to freed slaves.

What phrase referred to the promise of land and support for freed slaves post-Civil War?

40 acres and a mule.

What was the Freedmen's Bureau established for?

To provide practical aid to 4 million freedmen, including medical care, food, education, and help finding jobs.

What did the Civil Rights Act of 1866 establish?

It declared that blacks are U.S. citizens and allowed federal intervention to uphold their rights.

What does the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment ensure?

It guarantees that all citizens have equal protection under the law.

What process did the Southern states have to follow to rejoin the Union regarding the Fourteenth Amendment?

They had to ratify the Fourteenth Amendment to rejoin the Union.

What was the significance of Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation?

It declared the end of slavery in the rebelling states but did not recognize the Confederacy as a legitimate government.

What was the Wade-Davis Bill?

A congressional plan for Reconstruction requiring 50% of white males in a state to take an oath of loyalty and impose conditions for rejoining the Union.

What were black codes?

Laws passed by Southern legislatures to maintain control over the black population and restrict their rights after slavery was abolished.

What did the Thirteenth Amendment accomplish?

It abolished slavery in the United States.

How did President Johnson respond to the Civil Rights Act of 1866?

He vetoed it, but Congress overrode his veto, a rare occurrence.

What was the purpose of the Freedmen's Bureau's founding in March 1865?

To assist newly freed slaves with basic needs and support their transition to freedom.

What was the role of radical Republicans during the Reconstruction era?

They sought to reshape Southern society and protect the rights of newly freed slaves through legislation.