Final answer:
Andrew Johnson's approach to Reconstruction focused on a quick reintegration of the southern states into the Union with minimal federal interference, offering amnesty to most who pledged loyalty. His lenient policies contrasted sharply with the Radical Republicans' push for a more profound transformation, leading to significant conflict with Congress.
Step-by-step explanation:
Upon assuming the presidency after Lincoln's assassination, Andrew Johnson initiated a plan for Reconstruction, or as he termed it, 'restoration'. Johnson's approach was to offer a quick reintegration of southern states into the Union. His Reconstruction plan required southern states to nullify their secession ordinances, repudiate Confederate debts, and ratify the Thirteenth Amendment, which abolished slavery. However, he remained lenient by offering amnesty and restoration of property to most who took an oath of loyalty, excluding high-ranking Confederate officials and wealthy individuals. He hoped to replace the traditional southern aristocracy with new leaders and allowed southern states to manage their other affairs with minimal federal interference.
The leniency of Johnson's approach disappointed and angered many in his own party, particularly the Radical Republicans, who desired a more profound transformation of southern society and sought to ensure voting rights for formerly enslaved people. This conflict with Congress highlighted a significant split within the government over the proper path for Reconstruction.Johnson's presidency continued with a pattern of conflicts with Congress as he favored leniency and swift reintegration over the more extensive reconstruction Congress sought, exacerbating tensions and leading to his impeachment. Despite remaining in office, his approach left a sour taste regarding efforts to reconstruct the South.