Armstead L. Robinson
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 bitter partisan politics. In essence, the recurring...