What were the different approaches to reconstruction?

Answer 1

The different approaches to Reconstruction after the American Civil War primarily included Presidential Reconstruction, led by Abraham Lincoln and later Andrew Johnson, which favored a lenient approach to reintegrating the Southern states, and Congressional Reconstruction, spearheaded by the Radical Republicans, which sought to impose stricter terms and protect the rights of newly freed African Americans. Presidential Reconstruction aimed for quick restoration of the Union with minimal changes, while Congressional Reconstruction focused on significant social and political reforms, including the passage of the Reconstruction Amendments. These differing philosophies ultimately led to conflicts over the direction and implementation of Reconstruction policies.