Yawp Reconstruction I

Definition: Reconstruction was the period after the Civil War aimed at reuniting the nation from 1865 to 1877.
Historical Context: It followed the end of the Civil War on April 9, 1865, and ended with a shift in political power. This time witnessed the assassination of a president, the impeachment of another, and the addition of significant amendments to the Constitution.

President Assassination: Abraham Lincoln was assassinated by John Wilkes Booth on April 14, 1865.
Constitutional Amendments: Three crucial amendments were added during this period.
Freedom of Slaves: Approximately four million enslaved individuals were freed and sought to establish their new lives.

Start and End Dates: Initiated on April 12, 1861, with secessions and military attacks; concluded in 1865 at Appomattox Courthouse.
Death Toll: Approximately 620,000 soldiers died, the majority from disease rather than combat.

Goal: Restore the Union by allowing states to reintegrate into the Union with leniency.
10% Rule: States could rejoin if 10% of eligible voters took an oath of loyalty to the Constitution.
Emancipation Proclamation: Issued on January 1, 1863, freed slaves in rebellious states as a wartime tactic and forward-thinking strategy for post-war America.
Legacy: Speculation exists about how Reconstruction would have unfolded had Lincoln survived his assassination.

Post-Lincoln Presidency: After Lincoln's assassination, Vice President Andrew Johnson became president.
Lenient Approach: Predicated on states repudiating secession and ratifying the 13th Amendment to return to the Union.
Pardons: Johnson pardoned most ex-Confederates, requiring only wealthy planters to seek special pardons.
Black Codes: In response to newly freed slaves, Southern states enacted Black Codes to maintain white supremacy and control.
Legacy: Johnson’s presidency was characterized by tension with Congress, leading to opposition from Radical Republicans.

Radical Republican Response: Angered by Johnson's leniency, Congress sought to enforce stronger measures for Reconstruction.
Civil Rights Act of 1866: Aimed at abolishing Black Codes, asserting civil rights for freed slaves.
Military Districts: The South was divided into five military districts, governed by federal troops to ensure compliance with new mandates.
14th Amendment: Ratification required from Southern states to protect citizenship rights, establishing birthright citizenship and equal protection under the law.

House of Representatives Action: Johnson was impeached over violations of the Tenure of Office Act, but he was not convicted by the Senate.
Significance: His impeachment highlighted the ongoing conflict between the presidency and Congress concerning Reconstruction policies.
Political Aftermath: Following impeachment, Johnson maintained a less aggressive approach in governance.

Early Life: Born into poverty in North Carolina, had little formal education. Learned to read and write with his wife’s help.
Political Career: Rose through local politics to become a U.S. Senator. Known for his states' rights advocacy and views on race.
Presidential Selection: Chosen as Lincoln's vice president in part due to his Southern roots and Union loyalty, reflecting Lincoln’s desire to unify the nation post-war.