The close of Reconstruction had a significant impact on the federal government, particularly in the context of the balance of power between federal and state governments. Here’s a brief overview of how it affected the federal government, focusing on each of the provided options:
-
The balance of power between federal and state governments was restored. - This option is the most accurate in describing the effects of the close of Reconstruction. After Reconstruction ended in the late 1870s, there was a shift back toward greater state control and less federal intervention, especially in the South. This period saw the rise of Jim Crow laws and the disenfranchisement of African Americans, reflecting diminished federal efforts to enforce civil rights.
-
The Supreme Court was now more powerful than the legislative branch. - While the Supreme Court did indeed play a significant role in limiting the effects of Reconstruction, particularly with decisions that rolled back civil rights protections (such as the Slaughterhouse Cases and Plessy v. Ferguson), the statement about it being "more powerful" than the legislative branch is a bit misleading. The Court had authority in certain cases but did not surpass the legislative branch in terms of overall power.
-
The federal government exerted more power over the states. - This statement is generally inaccurate in the context of the post-Reconstruction era. As Reconstruction ended, the federal government actually reduced its role in regulating state affairs, particularly in the Southern states, allowing states to enact discriminatory laws.
-
Congress continued to become more powerful by consistently overruling the President. - While Congress did have conflicts with President Andrew Johnson during Reconstruction, by the end of the Reconstruction era, the dynamic shifted. The power of Congress did not necessarily increase in a significant way against the presidency in the subsequent years, especially as the nation dealt with economic issues and political changes in the late 19th century.
In summary, the best choice among the options provided is the balance of power between federal and state governments was restored, reflecting the period's movement toward greater state autonomy and diminished federal intervention.