CONTENT STATEMENT
- The Reconstruction period resulted in changes to the U.S. Constitution, an affirmation of federal authority and lingering social and political differences.
CONTENT ELABORATION
The conclusion of the American Civil War brought victory for the federal union over the secessionist states, emancipated enslaved Americans, and began the period of Reconstruction for the South.
During Reconstruction, amendments were passed to emancipate all enslaved Americans, grant citizenship, and extend voting rights.
Reconstruction had a particular impact on Southern states. They were required to implement a series of actions before being readmitted to the Union, resulting in resentments and new issues. Many white southerners resented the new status afforded to African Americans. They responded by enacting black codes forming organizations such as the Ku Klux Klan.
Congress and the presidency engaged in a struggle to control Reconstruction, which threatened the balance of power between the branches of the federal government.
EXPECTATIONS FOR LEARNING
Describe how the Reconstruction period resulted in changes to the U.S. Constitution, an affirmation of federal authority, and lingering social and political differences.