Beginning of Reconstruction

Agenda 1. Bell Ringer: 2. Notes: Politics of Reconstruction (20 minutes) 3. 10 Percent Plan analysis (15 minutes) 4. Comparing Reconstruction Plans: Johnson vs Radicals (20 minutes) 5. Reconstruction Timeline Changes over time (20 minutes) 6. Black Codes video clip (10 minutes) HW: Be ready for presentations on Thursday, if you want me to make copies I need the materials by noon tomorrow, 1/10/18

Lincoln’s Plan Reconstruction was a period after the Civil War to reunite the country. Lincoln wanted a quick reconciliation All people are pardoned, except high ranking Confederates Ten percent of people took oath of allegiance to the Union, A new government is formed in that state and representatives are sent to Congress. Radicals felt it was too lenient, they wanted rights for African Americans. Tried to pass Wade-Davis Bill to give Congress authority over Reconstruction, but it failed.

Johnson’s Plan He agreed with Lincoln, except Confederate officers should not gain a right to vote, or be represented in Congress. Each state had to withdraw secession agreements, and pay debts to the Union Also failed to address the needs of former slaves. When Congress convenes, the new Southern legislatures are refused seats. Congress began to work on its plan for Reconstruction You don’t mess with Thaddeus Stevens ---

Freedmen’s Bureau and Black Codes Freedmen’s Bureaus were set up to provide education, food, and healthcare to former slaves and poor whites. Civil Rights Act of 1866 attempted to prevent the passage of “black codes” laws that restricted the rights of African Americans. They tried to put them back in a position of slavery through state law. Johnson vetoes both actions, and Congress decides to begin impeachment proceedings.

Congress’ Plan for Reconstruction By 1866, Congress attempted to take over Reconstruction. They overruled the President’s veto on both acts, and then drafted the 14th amendment, making ALL persons citizens in the country. Their plan set up that ALL states had to ratify the 14th amendment to be readmitted back into the Union. Africans could vote within these military districts and promote their causes as they reentered the Union.

Reconstruction Act and Impeachment The Reconstruction Act put the control of the South firmly in the hands of Congress. Johnson decided to test Congress by firing Edwin Stanton, violating a recently created Tenure of Office Act. Congress began impeachment proceedings against Johnson for violating this act, and they were one vote shy of removing him from office. This would be his final term as president.