Subject

United States -- Politics and government -- 1865-1877 Books

Best books

J. Q. (James Quay) Howard

The Life, Public Services and Select Speeches of Rutherford B. Hayes

"The Life, Public Services and Select Speeches of Rutherford B. Hayes" by J. Q. Howard is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This biography chronicles the life of Rutherford B. Hayes, focusing on his ancestry, education, legal career, military service during the Civil War, and his subsequent political endeavors. The book likely delves into Hayes's principles, values, and contributions to American society, both as a soldier and a politician. The opening of the book begins with a detailed examination of Hayes's ancestry, tracing his family lineage back to George Hayes, who settled in America from Scotland in the late 17th century. The text highlights the valor and patriotism of his ancestors, showcasing pivotal moments that shaped their character, such as military service during various conflicts. Following the lineage, it transitions to the early life and education of Rutherford B. Hayes, detailing his upbringing, academic achievements, and entry into the legal profession, setting the stage for his later accomplishments as a prominent figure in American history.

John William Burgess

Reconstruction and the Constitution, 1866-1876

"Reconstruction and the Constitution, 1866-1876" by John William Burgess is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book examines the complexities and implications of the Reconstruction era following the American Civil War, focusing particularly on the constitutional aspects of reintegrating the Southern states into the Union. It aims to critique and analyze the various plans and policies that emerged during this transformative period in American history. The opening of the book sets the stage for a detailed exploration of the theory of Reconstruction, emphasizing the distinction between the concept of a "state" within a federal system and the nature of local governance. Burgess argues that a proper understanding of what constitutes a "state" is critical for addressing the challenges of Reconstruction, particularly the erroneous means employed in the process. He asserts that both the North and the South must acknowledge their roles in the failures of Reconstruction, and lays out the foundation for the discussions that will follow. This introduction highlights the idea that restoring civil governance requires not only legal frameworks but also a sincere recognition of past errors by both factions.

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