The conflict between Radical Republicans and President Andrew Johnson really slowed down the progress of rebuilding the South after the Civil War. This struggle led to many disagreements that made it hard to create fair and equal policies.

1. Radical Republican Goals:

• The Radical Republicans wanted to make sure that freed slaves had civil rights and that Southern society was changed for the better.
• They believed in tough rules against the former Confederacy, thinking that being too soft would keep racism and unfair treatment going.

2. Andrew Johnson’s Opposition:

• President Johnson liked a gentler approach and usually disagreed with the Radical Republicans.
• He often vetoed important laws, like the Civil Rights Act of 1866. This made it hard for the Radical Republicans to meet their goals.

3. Consequences:

• Because of this conflict, there was confusion and inconsistency in the laws, leaving many African Americans without vital rights and protections.
• The fighting took attention away from important economic and social problems in the South.

4. Impeachment and Aftermath:

• The Radical Republicans wanted to limit Johnson's power, which led to his impeachment in 1868. However, he was not removed from office by the Senate.
• This outcome created more power struggles and made it even harder to rebuild the South.

Solutions:

• To make Reconstruction work better, it was important for moderate and Radical Republicans to come together and share goals.
• Having support from both sides could have created a stronger government and sped up civil rights improvements.
• Focusing on conversations and compromise could have helped fix the divide, leading to a more successful Reconstruction era.