Reconstruction

Opening Activity Imagine that you have two sons. Your older son has been bullying and fighting your younger son. The older son says he is upset because the younger son gets more attention. You punish your son, and he responds by leaving home. Before he leaves, he steals $500 from you. What would you do when your son returns? Would you punish him harshly so he won’t do it again, or be lenient with him if he promises not to do it again? Explain your choice.

Lincoln’s Strategy Wanted to re-admit southern states into the Union as quickly as possible Was lenient and generous in terms of amnesty with Southern leaders

Radical Republicans There were many Republicans in Congress who wanted to be more strict They wanted to punish the south for the war and wanted to continue to occupy the south with the military

Assassination of Lincoln Abraham Lincoln was assassinated by John Wilkes Booth in April of 1865 He was succeeded by Andrew Johnson, who lacked the leadership and political skill of Lincoln He also harbored sympathies for the south, and was particularly harsh in his attitude toward former slaves.

Republican Response Republicans were galvanized by Lincoln’s assassination and thus pushed for more punitive measures toward the south. Republicans also pushed for the protection of voting rights for African Americans, against the wishes of President Johnson.

Impeachment Freedman’s Bureau Opposed the 14th amendment Impeached in February, 1868

Amendments 13th Amendment abolished slavery and involuntary servitude, except as punishment for a crime. 14th Amendment gave citizenship to all born in the United States, including former slaves. Equal Protection 15th amendment guaranteed the right to vote, regardless of skin color or previous condition of servitude.

Compromise of 1877 Republicans ran Rutherford B. Hayes, Democrats, Samuel Tilden. Heavily Disputed election, as the returns from Florida, Louisiana and South Carolina were unclear, as Oregon had an illegal elector. A compromise was made-Hayes would be given the office, but in return for the Democrat’s acquiescence, federal troops would vacate the south and Reconstruction would be ended.

Rise of Jim Crow Absence of Federal Troops allowed for severe and legalized discrimination against former slaves, as federal law was often ignored. Democratic Party began to regain its strength in the south, allowing for more legalized discrimination and segregation. Poll taxes and literacy tests kept many African Americans from voting Grandfather clause exempted many poor whites.