Did President Johnson's actions deserved to have him removed from office? Why or why not?

Answer 1

This is a subjective question and opinions may vary. However, President Johnson's actions during his tenure did lead to impeachment proceedings against him.

One of the main reasons why Johnson faced impeachment was his violation of the Tenure of Office Act. This act restricted the President's powers to remove certain officeholders without approval from the Senate. Johnson dismissed Secretary of War Edwin M. Stanton, who was a staunch opponent of Johnson's policies, without Senate approval. This act was considered unconstitutional and violated by Johnson. As a result, the House of Representatives voted to impeach Johnson, accusing him of "high crimes and misdemeanors."

Additionally, President Johnson's approach to Reconstruction policies after the American Civil War was criticized. Many believed that he failed to effectively protect the rights of freed slaves and neglected to implement sufficient reforms in the Southern states. Johnson's lenient policies towards the former Confederate states and his vetoes of several civil rights bills angered supporters of racial equality and led to questions about his ability to lead the nation in the post-war era.

However, it is important to note that Johnson was ultimately acquitted in his impeachment trial by the Senate. By just one vote, the Senate failed to reach the necessary two-thirds majority for conviction, allowing Johnson to remain in office.

Ultimately, whether President Johnson's actions deserved removal from office is a matter of personal judgment. Some may argue that his actions violated the Constitution and his Reconstruction policies were detrimental to the progress of civil rights, justifying his impeachment. Others may argue that his actions were within his presidential powers or that removal from office would have been an overstep.