W.E.B. Dubois described Reconstruction as a “splendid failure.”

Using Franklin, Foner, and relevant lecture notes answer the following:
1. W.E.B. Dubois described Reconstruction as a “splendid failure.” In your informed and educated
opinion, was Reconstruction more of a success or failure? Your essay should not refer to
experiences, people, or events after 1900.
Your essay must first describe and summarize Reconstruction (economic, political, and social) and then
take a position and argue why reconstruction was either more of a success or more of a failure. You need
to think about how Reconstruction affected the lives of the formerly enslaved, and their descendants, and
the nation. There is no single correct answer to this question; scholars are still debating the issue. You will
be evaluated on your ability to put together a persuasive and logical argument based on SOUND
historical evidence.