During the debate over Reconstruction, is it more likely the moderate or radical republicans would gain the upper hand?
Are there any sources available that could help me come to a reasonable conclusion?
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Radical_Republicans
http://books.google.com/books?id=SbWhq02y310C&pg=PA14&lpg=PA14&dq=Reconstruction+moderate+or+radical+republicans&source=bl&ots=RjJmAUZfyE&sig=x9irmn7Ht9Bo9j20X8RT0OYapb8&hl=en&ei=uymtSsnYD5XulAeA6bjlBg&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=10
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I reviewed these articles and with prior knowledge I think i'd have to say that Moderate Republicans would ultimalely gain the upperhand. Because the election of Johnson was basically the beginning of Reconstruction, at frist Radicals had the upperhand. However, once Johnson changed his motifs and views, he became more moderate like Lincoln because their views were more politcally practical.
I agree with you.
To determine whether moderate or radical Republicans were more likely to gain the upper hand during the debate over Reconstruction, you can consult various sources that provide insights into the viewpoints and actions of both groups. Here are a few potential sources:
1. Historical books and articles: Look for scholarly works that analyze the political dynamics of Reconstruction and the roles played by moderate and radical Republicans. Some notable books on this topic include "Reconstruction: America's Unfinished Revolution, 1863-1877" by Eric Foner and "Reconstruction: After the Civil War" by John Hope Franklin.
2. Primary sources: Examine letters, speeches, newspaper articles, and other primary sources from the period. These can provide firsthand accounts and perspectives, allowing you to assess the influence and strategies of both moderate and radical Republicans. The Library of Congress and archives like the National Archives can be useful resources for primary materials.
3. Academic journals: Check academic journals in the field of American history, such as the Journal of American History or the Journal of Southern History. These sources often publish articles that delve into the complexities of Reconstruction and discuss the differing approaches of moderate and radical Republicans.
4. Online resources: Websites like Britannica, History.com, or scholarly databases like JSTOR and ProQuest can provide access to a wide range of articles, essays, and resources on the topic.
By carefully reviewing these sources and considering the arguments and evidence presented, you can form a reasonable conclusion about which group, moderate or radical Republicans, gained the upper hand during the Reconstruction debate. Remember to critically analyze and cross-reference information from different sources to achieve a more well-rounded understanding of the topic.