Presidential Reconstruction

Definition

This refers to the period immediately following the Civil War (1865-1867) when Presidents Abraham Lincoln and Andrew Johnson took charge of Reconstruction, aiming to quickly reunite the country while also protecting former slaves' rights.

Analogy

Think of Presidential Reconstruction as a teacher trying to mend a broken class unity after a big fight. The teacher wants everyone back together quickly but also ensures that those who were bullied (former slaves) are now protected.

Related terms

Radical Reconstruction: The period from 1867-1877 when Congress took over Reconstruction efforts from the President, implementing stricter measures on Southern states before they could rejoin the Union.

14th Amendment: An amendment to the U.S. Constitution granting citizenship and equal civil and legal rights to African Americans and slaves who had been emancipated after the Civil War.

Impeachment of Andrew Johnson: The political trial in 1868 where President Andrew Johnson was charged by House Representatives with high crimes and misdemeanors, primarily his violation of Tenure of Office Act.