May 1, 2024
3 minute read
Reconstruction is the period in United States history that followed the American Civil War, from 1865 to 1877. During this time, the nation struggled to rebuild itself physically, economically, and socially. The war had devastated the South, and the country was divided by the issue of slavery. Reconstruction was a complex and challenging period, but it also marked a time of progress and change.
What is Reconstruction?
Reconstruction began with the end of the Civil War in 1865. The war had been fought over the issue of slavery, and the Union victory led to the freeing of four million slaves. Reconstruction was the process of reintegrating these former slaves into society and rebuilding the war-torn South.
The Goals of Reconstruction
The goals of Reconstruction were to:
- Reunite the Union
- Protect the rights of freed slaves
- Rebuild the South
- Promote economic development
- Create a more just and equitable society
The Challenges of Reconstruction
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Find a path to becoming a Reconstruction. Learn more at:
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Reading list
We've selected nine books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Reconstruction.
This German translation of Eric Foner's Pulitzer Prize-winning book provides a comprehensive overview of Reconstruction for German-speaking readers.
Provides a concise overview of Reconstruction, focusing on the political and economic challenges facing the nation during this period. McPherson argues that Reconstruction was a period of both progress and setbacks, and that its legacy is still debated today.
Argues that Reconstruction was a success in many ways, but that it was ultimately undermined by the rise of white supremacy. Blight argues that the Redemption of Reconstruction was a period of reaction and retrenchment that set the stage for the Jim Crow era.
Collection of essays that examines the Black Codes, a series of laws passed by Southern states after the Civil War that severely restricted the rights of African Americans. Du Bois argues that the Black Codes were a form of legalized apartheid that helped to perpetuate white supremacy in the South.
Biography of Albion Winegar Tourgée, a white Northerner who moved to the South after the Civil War and became a prominent advocate for civil rights for African Americans. Olsen argues that Tourgée was a complex and controversial figure who played a significant role in Reconstruction.
Provides a detailed account of the impeachment of Andrew Johnson, the first US president to be impeached. Benedict argues that the impeachment was a political trial that was motivated by Johnson's opposition to Reconstruction.
Argues that Reconstruction was a second civil war that was fought between the North and the South. Guelzo argues that the war was just as bloody and destructive as the first Civil War, and that it had a profound impact on the American nation.
Collection of primary source documents that provide a first-hand account of the emancipation of slaves during the Civil War and Reconstruction. Foner provides a detailed introduction to each document, and he also includes a helpful glossary of terms.
Concise overview of Reconstruction that is written for a general audience. Burlingame provides a clear and concise account of the period, and he also includes helpful maps and illustrations.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/topic/gfdfcf/reconstructio
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