Curated OER
Reconstruction (1865-1876)
Easily broken into pieces for several class sessions, this presentation is a great way to transition your class out of a Civil War unit and closer to the 20th century. Engaging photographs, including relevant maps and humorous political...
University of Groningen
American History: Documents: The Wade Davis Manifesto August 5 1864
View the complete text of the Wade-Davis Manifesto which describes a bill proposed for the reconstruction of the South. The bill passed both houses but was then vetoed by President Lincoln.
Mount Holyoke College
Mt. Holyoke: Reconstruction Timeline
Here's a concise timeline that highlights the important facets of reconstruction from the announcement of Abraham Lincoln's reconstruction plans to the end of reconstruction at the election of Rutherford B. Hayes.
US National Archives
Nara: Treasures of Congress: Wade Davis Bill
This National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) site contains a picture of the original Wade-Davis Bill as well as discussion on the effects it would have had if it had been adopted.
US National Archives
Our Documents: Wade Davis Bill(1864)
On this site you can view an original copy of the document and and also an easy to read version of the complete text. There is also a brief summary of the history behind the bill.
US National Archives
National Archives: To What Extent Was Reconstruction a Revolution? (Part 1)
Should Reconstruction be viewed as a revolution or not? Using primary source documents, students can weigh the evidence and come up with their conclusion. This lesson can be used as a whole class, small group, or individual activity.
University of Groningen
American History: Presidents: Proclamation on the Wade Davis Bill, 7 8 188
Here is the text of Abraham Lincoln's response to the Wade-Davis Bill, Congress' response to his plan for Reconstruction.
Digital History
Digital History: Two Plans for Reconstruction [Pdf]
Before his assassination, Abraham Lincoln was already making plans for Reconstruction in the South. Read about his plan and the plan of the Radical Republicans. See the reasoning behind each plan.
Then Again
Then Again: Web Chron: The Compromise of 1877
An explanation of the need for a compromise in 1877 and a review of Reconstruction overall.
Other
Basd: Reconstruction [Pdf]
A very clear document outlining the various reconstruction plans, the problems for both whites and blacks during Reconstruction, and the amendments added concerning the abolition of slavery, civil rights, and suffrage. Requires Adobe...
Son of the South
Son of the South: Christmas Dinner
Using a Thomas Nast political cartoon from 1864, the author explains Lincoln's plan for Reconstruction, a plan that was never to be carried out.
Other
Learning on Line: Lincoln's Reconstruction Plan
Part of a larger project about Abraham Lincoln as president, this page discusses the Reconstruction plans put forth by Lincoln, the Congress, and Andrew Johnson. Student comparison activity is included. Author is gifted education teacher...