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The Civil Rights Act of 1866

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The Civil Rights Act of 1866 was a landmark U.S. law that defined citizenship and guaranteed equal protection under the law, countering the oppressive Black Codes and setting a precedent for future civil rights legislation. It marked a significant step towards racial equality during the Reconstruction era, despite facing presidential veto and resistance.

The Civil Rights Act of 1866: A Foundational Step for Equality

The Civil Rights Act of 1866 represents a foundational step in the United States' journey towards civil equality, being the first federal law to define citizenship and affirm that all citizens are equally protected by the law. This landmark legislation was a major victory for the Radical Republicans, who sought to dismantle the oppressive Black Codes—laws passed by Southern states to restrict the freedoms of African Americans after the Civil War. Despite President Andrew Johnson's veto, Congress successfully overrode his decision, demonstrating a strong commitment to ensuring the civil rights of African Americans.
1860s courtroom scene with a man taking an oath, American flag with 36 stars in the background, and onlookers in period attire seated on wooden benches.

Reconstruction and the Battle for Racial Justice

The period following the Civil War, known as Reconstruction, was characterized by a fierce conflict between President Andrew Johnson and the Republican-dominated Congress over the future of the Southern states and the status of freed slaves. Johnson, who assumed the presidency after Lincoln's assassination, advocated for a lenient Reconstruction policy and upheld the principle of states' rights, resisting federal involvement in Southern state governance. Conversely, the Radical Republicans in Congress pushed for robust federal measures to guarantee racial equality, setting the stage for the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1866.

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00

Despite opposition from President ______ ______, Congress overruled his veto, signaling a dedication to safeguarding the civil rights of African Americans.

Andrew

Johnson

01

President during early Reconstruction

Andrew Johnson, succeeded Lincoln, favored lenient policies, states' rights.

02

Radical Republicans' stance

Advocated for strong federal action, racial equality, Civil Rights Act of 1866.

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