Well the French Revolution occurred in the late 18th century, so it is possible it is referring to that when it says it was built upon the backs of the common man. During the 18th century, there was massive discontent with King Louis XIV, whose son (Louis XVI) eventually became King and also eventually became massively unpopular.
Answer: reconstruction plan had goal of shortening the war and ending slavery; "is willing that the negro should be free but seeks nothing else for him