Question

What groups were important In the south during reconstruction? Explain how each group influenced reconstruction.

Answer 1

What groups were important In the south during reconstruction?

The Radical Republicans and the Southern Democrats were very important in the south during reconstruction. 


Here are some of their views that influenced Reconstruction: 

One thing to keep in mind is that the main issue relating to Reconstruction that divided Republicans at the end of the Civil War was how the Confederates should be dealt with/punished. Radical Republicans wanted to enslave the South until further notice and grant the Confederates with a brutal punishment because they blamed them for the lives lost in the war. They also advocated expansion of rights for the freedmen. However, some of their petitions were too “radical” to be made lawful and were, for a time, vetoed. So, they achieved some of their goals, but President Johnson prevented them from making some foolish mistakes. 

Southern Democrats wanted to limit the rights of the freedmen. Nevertheless, the radical republicans rained on their parade for the radicals were the majority in the house and senate. So,  the 14th amendment outlawed Black Codes and put an end to the loophole the Confederates had made to an end.


While it seems that Radical Republican's played the main part of Reconstruction, the efforts of the Southern Democrats should not be underestimated. Their endeavors to shun equality hindered the Reconstruction for several years; because of their undertakings, it took society a while to accept former slaves as brothers and sisters.