Chapter 15 Reconstruction and the New South

The Reconstruction period of the United States was an important period in American history. It took place in the years following the Civil War, and it was focused on restoring the Union and rebuilding the South. During this time, the South was radically transformed from its pre-war state. In this chapter, we will explore the Reconstruction period and the new South that emerged from it.

The Reconstruction Period

The Reconstruction Period

The Reconstruction period lasted from the end of the Civil War in 1865 to 1877. During this time, the United States government sought to reintegrate the Confederate states into the Union, and to restore the South to its pre-war state. This was accomplished through a combination of military occupation, political and economic measures, and social reforms. The Reconstruction period also saw the implementation of the 13th, 14th and 15th amendments, which abolished slavery, granted citizenship to African Americans, and granted the right to vote to African American males.

Reconstruction and the New South

Reconstruction and the New South

The Reconstruction period was a time of great change in the South. The old plantation system was replaced with a more democratic and egalitarian system. African Americans gained legal rights and economic opportunities, and education and industry were developed. African Americans also began to take part in politics, and the Republican Party became the dominant political force in the South. This period of Reconstruction also saw many advances in infrastructure, such as railroad building and the development of new industries.

The End of Reconstruction

The End of Reconstruction

Reconstruction came to an end in 1877 when the U.S. Congress removed federal troops from the South. This led to a period of what is often called the “Redemption” of the South. During this period, white Democrats regained control of state government and sought to undo the reforms of Reconstruction. This led to the disenfranchisement of African Americans, and the imposition of segregation and other forms of racial discrimination.



The Reconstruction period and the new South that emerged from it were an important time in American history. During this time, the South was radically transformed, and African Americans gained legal rights and economic opportunities. However, the end of Reconstruction led to the Redemption of the South, and the re-imposition of racial segregation and discrimination.