Synopses & Reviews
Reconstruction after the Civil War explores the role of former slaves during this period in American history. Looking past popular myths and controversial scholarship, John Hope Franklin uses his astute insight and careful research to provide an accurate, comprehensive portrait of the era. His arguments concerning the brevity of the Northandrsquo;s occupation, the limited power wielded by former slaves, the influence of moderate southerners, the flawed constitutions of the radical state governments, and the downfall of Reconstruction remain compelling today. This new edition of Reconstruction after the Civil War also includes a foreword by Eric Foner and a perceptive essay by Michael W. Fitzgerald.
Review
and#8220;John Hope Franklinand#8217;s
Reconstruction: After the Civil War fills this yawning gap [in scholarship of this period] and with notable balance and judicious temper, tells an old story in a new light. . . . Franklin makes good his contentions at every point and provides a sorely needed restatement of what scholars now know about Reconstruction.and#8221;
Review
andldquo;[John Hope] Franklin used intellect and patience to surmount the barriers thrust in his way and went on to become one of the preeminent historians of his time.andrdquo;
About the Author
John Hope Franklin (1915andndash;2009) was the James B. Duke Professor of History Emeritus at Duke University. He is the author of many books, including Mirror to America: The Autobiography of John Hope Franklin and Racial Inequality in America.