Reconstructing the Nation.

The Civil War ended on April 9, 1865, and the original goal of the North to preserve the Union was accomplished. The task that lay before Lincoln and Congress now were reintegrating the rebellious Southern states into the Union. For many white southerners “Reconstruction was a vicious and destructive experience – a period when vindictive Northerners inflicted humiliation and revenge on a pro-state South.”In order to prepare for this discussion forum:Review and identify the relevant sections of Chapter 17 that support your discussion.Review and identify relevant information on the linked PBS American Experience site, Reconstruction The Second Civil WarWhite Men UniteState by State: Reconstruction timelineThis link will direct you to the full transcript of the Wade-Davis Bill. What does it suggest about the prevailing Reconstruction sentiments in Congress? Read the section in Chapter 17 which discusses the Black Codes, and the linked document, taken from the writings of William A. Dunning. As you read, examine how he reveals his racist’s assumptions. After you have completed your readings post your response to only ONE of the following questions.President Lincoln was assassinated on the April 14th, 1865. But what if Lincoln had led the nation through Reconstruction? Would the events and outcomes of Reconstruction have been different? Review the 4 Reconstruction Plans: Lincoln’s Ten Percent plan, the Wade-Davis Bill, Johnson’s plan for Reconstruction also referred to as “Restoration”, and Congressional Reconstruction, comparing and contrasting them. In your opinion, which plan would have produced the best results, or was all of the plans doomed to produce the same end? Consider how Dunning justifies the Black Codes. In your opinion, were the Black Codes a necessary and realistic response to the situation, or were they a thinly disguised attempt to resubjugate the freedmen? Support your position.