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The loss of this great leader occurred at a time when

America desperately needed his exceptional wisdom and
compassion to guide the nation through the
unprecedented and painful era of reconstruction that

was coming. This loss proved to be a pivotal turning
point that would set back human relations for centuries

to come.

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Vice-President Andrew Johnson assumed the
Presidency following Lincoln’s assassination. He served
from 1865 to 1869; the balance of Lincoln’s term.

Johnson, a Democrat and former slave owner from
Tennessee, had remained loyal to the Union during the

war. However, his actions as President proved contrary
to Lincoln’s balanced vision of restoration. It was

completely opposite to the reconstruction plan that the
Republican Party envisioned.

Republican leaders embraced Lincoln’s desire to
establish the rightful dignity of former slaves; but

instead of compassionate restoration of the Union, they
were determined to impose harsh punishments and

retributions on the South. Their plans totally clashed
with Johnson’s actions.

Johnson favored quick restoration of the Southern states
back into the Union. At the consternation of Republican

leadership, President Johnson granted amnesty to most

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