Discuss the original purposes of the Freedman’s Bureau and the goals of the planned enlargement of the program by Congress. Evaluate how successful it was in helping the Reconstruction efforts
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http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Freedmen's_Bureau
http://www.besthistorysites.net/index.php/american-history/1800/reconstruction
The Freedman's Bureau, officially known as the Bureau of Refugees, Freedmen, and Abandoned Lands, was established by Congress in March 1865 at the end of the American Civil War. Its primary purpose was to provide assistance, protection, and support to newly emancipated slaves and poor whites in the South.
The original goals of the Freedman's Bureau included:
1. Education: Providing access to education for formerly enslaved individuals and the poor, including establishing schools and colleges.
2. Employment: Assisting freedmen and poor whites in finding employment by negotiating labor contracts.
3. Land redistribution: Administering and redistributing abandoned or confiscated lands to the freedmen and poor whites.
4. Legal protection: Providing legal assistance and protection to individuals who faced discrimination or threats of violence.
5. Basic necessities: Distributing food, clothing, and medical assistance to those in need.
Congress, recognizing the ongoing challenges faced by the freed people, sought to expand the Freedman's Bureau and passed the Freedman's Bureau Bill in early 1866. The enlarged program aimed to provide long-term support and assistance in the Reconstruction efforts.
The goals of the expanded program included:
1. Extending the life of the Bureau: Initially set to expire in one year, the bill extended its operation for five more years.
2. Land reform: The bill sought to facilitate the distribution of land to freed people and protect them from unfair contracts and exploitation.
3. Legal protection: Enhancing the Bureau's role in enforcing the civil rights of freedmen, prosecuting crimes against them, and establishing justice in the Southern states.
4. Education: Expanding educational opportunities by establishing more schools and prioritizing the training of teachers.
When evaluating the success of the Freedmen's Bureau in helping Reconstruction efforts, it is important to consider both its accomplishments and shortcomings. On one hand, the Bureau played a crucial role in providing immediate relief to the millions of freed slaves, addressing their basic needs, and facilitating the establishment of schools and education. It significantly contributed to the literacy and educational advancement of African Americans in the South.
However, the Bureau faced numerous challenges and limitations. It struggled with insufficient funding, inadequate resources, and resistance from white Southerners who resented the federal government's involvement. Its ambitious goals of land redistribution and protecting civil rights faced considerable opposition, resulting in limited success. Additionally, the Bureau lacked the power to enforce its policies effectively, and corruption among its agents tarnished its reputation.
In conclusion, while the Freedman's Bureau made significant strides in its efforts to help Reconstruction, its overall success was limited due to a range of factors, including financial constraints, political opposition, and logistical difficulties. Nonetheless, its establishment marks an important step towards the advancement of civil rights and the empowerment of newly freed slaves in the aftermath of the Civil War.