I need some help with my history. What was some of the challenges and failure of Reconstruction for the Radical and Moderate Republicans? I know that the Reconstruction was thought to be a failure but what positive changes took place during this time?
Thanks.
Here are two sites that will give you some ideas.
http://www.articlemyriad.com/203.htm
http://wiki.answers.com/Q/What_are_the_positive_points_of_the_Southern_Reconstruction
During Reconstruction, both Radical and Moderate Republicans faced numerous challenges and encountered some failures. Understanding these challenges and failures is essential to grasp the complexities of this period in American history.
1. Resistance from Southern Whites: One of the primary challenges was opposition from Southern whites who resisted efforts to grant equal rights to African Americans. This manifested in the form of discriminatory laws (Black Codes), violence, intimidation, and the rise of white supremacist groups like the Ku Klux Klan. These actions undermined the gains made during Reconstruction.
2. Reluctance from Northern Whites: Many white Northerners grew weary of the challenges posed by Reconstruction. They became less supportive of federal intervention in the South and were reluctant to enforce African American civil rights. This waning support from the North weakened the Reconstruction effort.
3. Compromises and Retreats: The Radical Republicans, who advocated for more radical changes during Reconstruction, faced opposition and compromises that limited their objectives. The passage of laws like the Compromise of 1877, which ended Reconstruction in exchange for the election of President Hayes, signaled a retreat from the original goals of the Radical Republicans.
4. Economic Limitations: Reconstruction faced economic challenges due to the destruction caused by the Civil War and the need for Southern states to rebuild their infrastructure. Limited resources hindered efforts to provide education, land, and economic opportunities for the newly freed African Americans.
While there were significant challenges and failures during Reconstruction, some positive changes did occur:
1. Constitutional Amendments: The Thirteenth Amendment abolished slavery, the Fourteenth Amendment granted equal protection of the law to all citizens, and the Fifteenth Amendment guaranteed the right to vote regardless of race. These amendments were milestones in advancing civil rights.
2. Educational and Political Opportunities: Many African Americans took advantage of new educational opportunities, establishing schools and pursuing political leadership roles. Institutions like Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) were established during this time.
3. Landownership: Some African Americans acquired land through programs like the Freedmen's Bureau, which aimed to provide economic assistance to former slaves. Landownership provided economic stability and independence for many African American families.
Despite its ultimate failure in ensuring lasting racial equality, Reconstruction laid the groundwork for future civil rights movements and legislation in the United States. Understanding both the challenges faced and the positive changes achieved during this era provides valuable insights into the complexities of American history.