Reconstruction: Rebuilding the South — Reading Comprehension

Reconstruction began in 1865 after the Civil War ended. The country needed to heal and rebuild, especially in the South. The war had destroyed many homes, farms, and schools. President Abraham Lincoln wanted the country to come together again. He said, "With malice toward none, with charity for all," which means he wanted peace, not anger.

Lincoln made a plan to help the Southern states join the United States again. Sadly, he was killed before his work was done. New leaders tried to continue his plan. The government created the Freedmen's Bureau to help people in the South. The Bureau gave food, clothes, and education to freedmen, people who had once been slaves.

Many people in the South faced hardship. Some did not have enough food or a place to live. Schools and hospitals were rebuilt. New laws were made to protect the rights of freedmen. These laws were called amendments. The 13th, 14th, and 15th Amendments ended slavery and gave rights to all citizens.

Some people did not agree with these changes. There were groups that tried to stop freedmen from voting and going to school. President Ulysses S. Grant helped protect the rights of freedmen. He sent soldiers to make sure the new laws were followed.

Reconstruction was a hard time, but many people worked together to rebuild. They showed unity and courage. The country learned that working together can solve big problems.

Interesting Fact: The first African American men voted in the South during Reconstruction.

When did Reconstruction begin?

Who was president at the start of Reconstruction?

What did the Freedmen's Bureau provide?

Why were new laws called amendments made?

What did President Grant do during Reconstruction?

Why was the South rebuilt?

Reconstruction was a time of rebuilding. True or false?

What does 'unity' mean?