Answer:
The difference between the two authors is that on the one hand McPherson emphasizes as positive several social and economic changes while Foner discusses the lack of change.
- Foner argues that the Reconstruction process was a failure because the political changes that were promoted were canceled. For his part, McPherson argues that the Reconstruction process was a great revolution considering the benefits it reported for the African American people.
- With respect to the economic sphere, Foner argues that Reconstruction did not bring new opportunities while for McPherson it was a period that allowed the increase of economic opportunities.