Constitutional and Social Developments between 1860 and 1877 essays

Constitutional and Social Developments between 1860 and 1877 essays America went through countless changes between 1860 and 1877. During this reconstruction era following the civil war came drastic developments in the North and the South, which were now united as one nation. The power of the government was increased greatly during this reconstruction period. In addition, the social status of the blacks in America altered greatly as well. The constitutional and social developments during the time period between 1860 and 1877 mostly amounted to a revolution, but not completely. There were many constitutional developments in America that amounted close to a revolution. The Souths major decision to secede from the Union greatly impacted America during the Civil war. For instance, South Carolina took its opportunity to secede from the Union with the support of an amendment stating that the powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the states, are reserved to the states (Doc A). There were 11 states total that seceded due to their disagreement with Lincoln and his beliefs. Also, the 13th, 14th, and 15th amendments were added to the Constitution during this reconstruction period. These amendments fulfilled petitions started in America to grant blacks voting and civil rights (Doc C). These amendments gave blacks freedom, citizenship, and voting rights in America reverting their position in society. This was close to a revolution because slavery was finally ended and blacks were even given civil rights, which was a co mplete turn in society. However, these were just laws on paper and were not obeyed by all of society. This was a form of revolution on paper and documents, but not socially. The Force acts were also put into place to stop violent organizations against black civil rights such as the Ku Klux Klan. The government gave authority to use military force to stop these anti-black freedom movements (Doc H). These acts showed revolution a...