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The Battle for Reconstruction: Congress vs. President Johnson

This text explores the tumultuous period of Radical Reconstruction, highlighting President Johnson's plans and the South's response, including the implementation of Black Codes. It details Congress's reaction, leading to the 14th and 15th Amendments aimed at ensuring rights for newly freed Black Americans. The power struggle escalates as Johnson fires Secretary of War Stanton, violating the Tenure of Office Act, resulting in his impeachment trial. Finally, the Compromise of 1877 ends Reconstruction, solidifying white control over the South. This raises questions about sacrifice for power and the authenticity of American ideals.

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The Battle for Reconstruction: Congress vs. President Johnson

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Presentation Transcript

  1. Radical Reconstruction II

  2. Questions • How will the South respond to Pres. Johnson’s Reconstruction plans? • How will Congress (Radical Republicans) respond?

  3. South • South accepts the 13th Amendment….but • Add Black Codes to replace Slavery in State Constitutions • Example: “Freed Negros must work in agriculture.” • Their way of keeping their labor on the plantations.

  4. The Battle Begins • Congress tells the President to increase support to the Freedman’s Bureau • Newly freed people have no tools, or money. • Johnson says ”NO” • Congress responds with the 14th Amendment • Gives rites of citizenship and equal protection under the law • Most cited Amendment in Civil Rights cases today

  5. The Fight • Johnson urges States not to support 14th Amendment • Congress takes control of Reconstruction • Divide South into 5 military zones • Add 15th Amendment giving black men the vote. • Problem: 15th worded in negative. “Vote may not be denied due to race, religion or previous condition of servitude.” (3 reasons) what about?

  6. The Dirt • Johnson learns his “secrets” are being leaked to Congress. • Realizes his Sec. of War Edwin Stanton was revealing information to Congress • Plans to fire him

  7. Congress Reacts • Congress passes “Tenure of Office Act” • Forbids President from firing a Cabinet member

  8. What would you do? • Johnson fires Stanton anyway believing he is within his powers as President. • Congress votes to Impeach the President for violating the law. • Trial is held, Johnson found not-guilty by one vote. • Constitution requires the Senate to make appointments but nothing about firings.

  9. Election of 1876 • Rutherford B. Hayes (R) v Samuel Tilden (D) • Electoral vote • Tilden: 184 • Hayes 165 • Needed to win 185 • 20 votes not cast • Tilden needs 1

  10. Compromise of 1877 • Hayes cuts a deal: in return for the 20 votes, he ends Reconstruction in the South and removes military troops. • Who is in charge? • Whites Control South • Jim Crow reigns

  11. Lesson? • Will someone sell out the interests of individuals for personal gain? • Are Americans fooling themselves today?

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