I have a question for someone. I need some help in getting started on this paper for my History class.

I need to assume the role of a Radical Republican Senator and argue the Radical Republican position of Reconstruction in the first part of my paper and in the second part I need to take the role of a moderate Republican and argue the moderate Republican position.
I am stumped on how to start this paper. Can someone please help me with ideas?
Thanks.

I assume you've researched both sides. Now make an outline of the three main points for the Radicals and then the three main points for the moderates.

You should start with an attention-getter and end the first paragraph with your thesis statement for the Radical Senator.

Of course! I'd be happy to help you get started on your paper about the Radical Republican and moderate Republican positions on Reconstruction. Let's walk through the process step by step:

1. Familiarize yourself with the Radical Republican position: To assume the role of a Radical Republican Senator, it's important to understand their beliefs and objectives during the Reconstruction era. Research about key figures such as Thaddeus Stevens and Charles Sumner, as well as the Radical Republican agenda which included goals such as granting civil rights to freed slaves, imposing military rule in the South, and ensuring political and economic equality. Make note of specific legislation they supported, such as the Reconstruction Acts of 1867.

2. Gather evidence: Start by searching for primary sources, such as speeches, letters, and official documents, to find direct quotes and examples of Radical Republican arguments and actions during Reconstruction. Digital archives and academic databases can be valuable resources for finding primary sources. Look for evidence that supports their positions, such as the need for federal intervention, the importance of voting rights for African Americans, or the necessity of punishing the South for secession.

3. Structure your argument as a Radical Republican: Begin your paper by introducing your role as a Radical Republican Senator and briefly explain the historical context and goals of the Radical Republicans during Reconstruction. Present your position by discussing key arguments aligned with the Radical Republican stance, supported by evidence from your research. For example, you could argue that the South should be held accountable for its actions during the Civil War and emphasize the importance of protecting the newly gained civil rights of African Americans.

4. Transition to the moderate Republican position: In the second part of your paper, transition to the role of a moderate Republican and present the moderate Republican perspective on Reconstruction. Repeat the steps from above, this time researching the beliefs and policies of moderate Republicans like Abraham Lincoln and Andrew Johnson. Explore their emphasis on compromise, reconciliation, and a more lenient approach towards the defeated South.

5. Contrast the two positions: After presenting the moderate Republican position, compare and contrast it with the Radical Republican point of view. Highlight the key differences in their goals, strategies, and levels of federal intervention. Discuss how these differences in approach impacted the outcomes of Reconstruction and influenced the historical narrative.

Remember to support your arguments with evidence, cite your sources properly, and provide analysis rather than just stating facts. This will help your paper be more persuasive and informative. Good luck with your paper on Reconstruction!