Using what you learned in this unit, what was the biggest challenge the nation faced in reconstruction, and why was it the biggest challenge? (4-6 sentences)
Don't forget to use RAD Restate the questions, Answer the question, and provide Details ;) Good essay questions should be at least 4-6 sentences.
(5 points)
RAD: The biggest challenge the nation faced in reconstruction was the deep-rooted racial prejudices and discrimination that persisted in the South.
When the Civil War ended, the nation had to address the issue of integrating newly freed African Americans into society and ensuring their rights and freedoms were protected. This proved to be a massive challenge as many white Southerners were resistant to the idea of equality and continued to hold racist beliefs. This led to the rise of organizations like the Ku Klux Klan, who used violence and intimidation to terrorize African Americans and prevent them from exercising their rights.
Additionally, the passage of discriminatory Black Codes and Jim Crow laws further institutionalized segregation and inequality, making it difficult for African Americans to fully participate in society. The deeply ingrained racism in the South made it the biggest challenge in reconstruction, as it required a complete societal shift in attitudes and beliefs in order to achieve true equality and justice.