African Americans during Reconstruction

The end of the Civil War was a hopeful beginning for African Americans. Although Lincoln left no definite plan for reconstruction, many supported one, and eventually passed the Reconstruction Act of 1867. African Americans were given the right to vote, and the South was given assistance to rebuild itself. With Republican support, African Americans began to gain power socially and politically. However, discrimination persisted, and African Americans struggled to find a place in American society.