Presidential and Congressional Reconstruction plans differ primarily in their goals, approaches, and the degree of leniency or rigor applied toward the Southern states following the Civil War.
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Goals and Approach:
- Presidential Reconstruction: Led by Presidents Abraham Lincoln and Andrew Johnson, this approach aimed for a rapid reintegration of the Southern states into the Union. It sought to restore the Union quickly and with minimal punishment towards the South, emphasizing forgiveness and reconciliation.
- Congressional Reconstruction: Also known as Radical Reconstruction, this approach was driven by the Republican-controlled Congress. It sought to impose stricter terms on Southern states, emphasizing civil rights for freed slaves and a more thorough transformation of Southern society. Congressional Reconstruction aimed to reshape the political landscape in the South and ensure the protection of African American rights.
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Leniency vs. Rigor:
- Presidential Reconstruction: Lincoln's plan included the "10 Percent Plan," which allowed Southern states to be readmitted to the Union if 10% of their voters pledged allegiance to the Union. Johnson continued this lenient approach but faced backlash for offering pardons to many Confederate leaders.
- Congressional Reconstruction: In contrast, the Congressional plan enacted the Reconstruction Acts of 1867, which divided the South into military districts and imposed military rule until new state constitutions guaranteeing black male suffrage were created. It established more rigorous criteria for re-admittance and emphasized civil rights protections.
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Implementation of Civil Rights:
- Presidential Reconstruction: There was little emphasis on civil rights for freed slaves, and policies tended to favor the pre-war leadership in the South.
- Congressional Reconstruction: Following the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1866 and the 14th Amendment, Congressional Reconstruction focused on ensuring civil rights and suffrage for African Americans, with an emphasis on enforcing these rights against Southern resistance.
In summary, the primary differences center around the intent and methods of reintegration, with Presidential Reconstruction being more lenient and focused on quick reunification, while Congressional Reconstruction aimed for a more profound restructuring of Southern society with a focus on civil rights and protection for newly freed African Americans.
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