Question

Which event led the House of Representatives to impeach President Johnson?

Answer 1

The House of Representatives impeached President Andrew Johnson primarily due to his violation of the Tenure of Office Act. This Act restricted the president's power to remove certain officeholders without the Senate's approval. Johnson attempted to dismiss Edwin M. Stanton, the Secretary of War, who was a key ally of Congress in implementing Reconstruction policies. His actions were seen as a challenge to congressional authority and led to his impeachment in 1868. The impeachment proceedings were also fueled by Johnson's broader opposition to Congressional Reconstruction efforts and his attempts to undermine the policies established by Congress.