WRITING ASSIGNMENT 1A: Reconstruction.  

President Lincoln's goal for reconstruction remained linked to his goal in the war-preserve the Union. His plan favored leniency, in order to as quickly as possible reintegrate the south, and gain the support of Southern Unionists (mostly former Whigs). Radical Republicans urged a much harsher course, believing that the South was unrepentant and should bear the costs of Reconstruction.

INSTRUCTIONS:

In order to prepare you must complete the following readings:

• Review the following sections in Chapter 15:  "Radical Reconstruction in the South" and "The Overthrow of Reconstruction" along with the linked document, taken from the writings of William A. Dunning (im going to attach the link)
• Review and identify relevant information on the linked PBS American Experience site, Reconstruction the second civil war (im going to attach the link)
• Utilize at least one of the linked sources to support your discussion.
• Identify and incorporate at least one additional outside source to support your discussion. In addition to the textbook, you may use any material outside of the textbook that is recommended in the Additional Reading section at the end of each chapter. You are also encouraged to do your own research and identify relevant sources. Please keep in mind that WIKIPEDIA is not an acceptable reference.
• PREPARE AND SUBMIT:

Write a well-organized piece of writing, a minimum of 700 words (but not limited to), including supporting details from the documents/textbook/other sources in which you analyze and discuss the material that has been assigned by addressing the following question:

1. In your opinion, were the Radical Republicans correct in their assumptions regarding the South, or could Lincoln's approach have paved the way for a continuation of the political, social, and economic gains that African Americans had achieved during Reconstruction? Support your argument(s) including information from assigned and linked readings