The period of Reconstruction refers to the time after the American Civil War, from 1865 to 1877, when efforts were made to rebuild and reintegrate the Southern states back into the Union.
Related terms
Thirteenth Amendment: This amendment abolished slavery in the United States.
Fourteenth Amendment: This amendment granted equal protection under the law to all citizens, including former slaves.
Fifteenth Amendment: This amendment prohibited denying voting rights based on race or color.