The first Reconstruction was one of the most critical and turbulent episodes in the American experience. Few periods in the nation's history have produced greater controversy or left a greater legacy of unresolved social issues to afflict future gener- ations.
The postwar period-from General Robert E. Lee's surren- der at Appomattox in April 1865 through President Rutherford
B. Hayes's inauguration in March 1877-was marked by bitter partisan politics. In essence, the recurring question was how...