Stevens’ speech to Congress on July 9, 1867 is an excellent example of his views of the Reconstruction era. The document displays many of Mr. Stevens’ views on conquered lands, the presidency, and the way the South should be governed. The speech gives a concise view on his major points where as other document do not contain a complete image of Thaddeus Stevens. He feels that Southern lands and their government were conquered by the Union armies and should be governed by Congress