Reconstruction Era: Overview

Introduction

• Period following the Civil War in the 1860s.
• Known for its chaos, excitement, and ultimate devastation.
• Significant changes with promises of citizenship and equal rights.

Key Achievements of Reconstruction

• Voting Rights for Black Men:
  • In 1867, over 80% of black men in former Confederate states registered to vote.
  • First major step towards political integration.
• Notable Figures:
  • Hiram Revels:
    • First black man elected to the United States Senate.
  • Joseph Rainey:
    • First black U.S. congressman.
  • Their elections led to over 2,000 black office holders at various governmental levels.

Impact of Reconstruction

• Rare historical moment where a subordinated group gained political power within a decade.
• Momentum led to increased access to the ballot box and other rights.

Decline of Black Political Power

• By 1875, the 44th Congress had seven Black House members and one U.S. Senator.
• By 1900, only one remained: George Henry White of North Carolina.
• White's departure in 1901 marked the end of an era for black political leadership.

Irony and Legacy of Reconstruction

• Achievements in the 1870s were rolled back in subsequent decades.
• Irony:
  • Rights claimed in the 1870s had to be fought for again in the 1960s.
• Warning that achievements thought to be permanent can be overturned.
• Rights should never be taken for granted.