Presidency of Andrew Johnson

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The Presidency of Andrew Johnson began on April 15, 1865, following the assassination of Abraham Lincoln, and ended on March 4, 1869. Johnson, who had been serving as Vice President, assumed the presidency during a critical period in United States history, known as Reconstruction.

Early Life and Career

Andrew Johnson was born on December 29, 1808, in Raleigh, North Carolina. He grew up in poverty and did not receive formal education. Johnson became a tailor and later entered politics, serving as mayor of Greeneville, Tennessee, and then as a member of the Tennessee House of Representatives and the Tennessee Senate. He was elected to the United States House of Representatives and later served as the Governor of Tennessee and a U.S. Senator.

Vice Presidency

Johnson was selected as Abraham Lincoln's running mate in the 1864 election, representing the National Union Party, a coalition of War Democrats and Republicans. He was inaugurated as Vice President on March 4, 1865.

Assumption of the Presidency

Following the assassination of Abraham Lincoln on April 14, 1865, Johnson was sworn in as the 17th President of the United States on April 15, 1865. His presidency began during the final stages of the American Civil War and the beginning of the Reconstruction era.

Reconstruction Policies

Johnson's approach to Reconstruction was lenient towards the former Confederate states. He implemented a plan that allowed Southern states to rejoin the Union with minimal requirements, which included the ratification of the Thirteenth Amendment abolishing slavery. However, his policies faced opposition from the Radical Republicans in Congress, who sought stricter measures to protect the rights of newly freed African Americans.

Impeachment

Johnson's presidency was marked by significant conflict with Congress, particularly over Reconstruction policies. This culminated in his impeachment by the United States House of Representatives in 1868. The primary charge was his violation of the Tenure of Office Act by removing Edwin M. Stanton, the Secretary of War, from office. Johnson was acquitted by the United States Senate by one vote and thus remained in office for the rest of his term.

Later Life and Legacy

After leaving the presidency, Johnson returned to Tennessee, where he remained active in politics. He was elected to the United States Senate in 1875 but died shortly after taking office on July 31, 1875. Johnson's presidency is often criticized for his lenient Reconstruction policies and his opposition to civil rights for African Americans. However, his steadfastness in the face of impeachment has also been noted as a significant moment in the history of the U.S. presidency.

Related Pages

• Andrew Johnson
• Reconstruction era
• Abraham Lincoln
• Impeachment of Andrew Johnson
• Thirteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution
• Radical Republicans

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