Reconstruction After the Civil War

Reconstruction was the foremost goal for many after the civil war. Yet, various individuals and political parties held a plethora of contrasting beliefs concerning how to face this reconstruction task. In terms of the Reconstruction, two ideas permeated the political field: who would have the authority to enact these changes and in what ways would national unity be accomplished. It is obvious that throughout this time the power held within the federal government would be challenged by southern state governments. The struggles reflected the inability of reaching a concurrent decision. During Johnson’s presidency Republicans did not agree with the meager actions in regards to ex-rebels. Republicans did not agree with how the government exacted demands on the southern states. They were not swift punishments or appropriate retribution. Republicans believed these simple demands only emphasized that Union soldiers died in vain. In contrast Johnson disagreed with the Republican’s idea of expanding federal control and preferred an emphasis on state’s rights. As a part of the Democratic Party, he was lenient with ex-rebels and often criticized sympathizers. One cause or series of laws within Southern states known as black codes, were used to usurp black freedom and federal control. Republicans realized their goals were seated in the 14th amendment. If blacks could vote and if southern states were punished through decreased representation in the federal government, Republicans could maintain political power. It appears that Republicans were wary of state rule and favored Congress’ right to control representation. This would definitely serve as a way to monitor various southern states. Federal support and protection of black rights worked o...

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...ut government spending and eliminate what they consider wastes federal money. In the past the Democratic Party influenced impoverished southerners by exploiting economic instability and used this strain to coerce southerners to disagree with the federal government that at the time was influenced by the Republicans. The idea of the government spending severely afflicting white farmers influenced them to join the Democratic cause. Our book states that they effectively used racial pride and social isolation to change the political scene within southern states. Without government regulation, due to what many believed as the North’s abandonment, the Democratic strategy was complete.

It appears that even though the roles have reversed, these two political parties are still at odds and remain to clash heads concerning who holds the authority to enact changes in society.