Reconstruction
Reconstruction was the period in American history from 1865 to 1877, following the Civil War, aimed at rebuilding the Southern states and integrating formerly enslaved people into society. It involved significant political, social, and economic changes, including the establishment of new laws to ensure civil rights for African Americans. The 13th, 14th, and 15th Amendments abolished slavery, granted citizenship, and protected voting rights, respectively. However, Reconstruction faced significant opposition, leading to its eventual decline and the rise of discriminatory practices that undermined these advancements. It remains a pivotal chapter in the struggle for civil rights in the United States.
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Reconstruction refers to the period in American history following the Civil War, from 1865 to 1877. It focused on rebuilding the southern states that had seceded and integrating formerly enslaved people into society. Key goals included restoring the Union, rebuilding the South's economy, and promoting civil rights for African Americans. The federal government implemented laws and amendments to ensure rights and protections. However, Reconstruction faced significant resistance, leading to its eventual end, marked by the withdrawal of federal troops from the South and the rise of discriminatory laws known as Jim Crow, which institutionalized racial segregation.