What conflict was a result of the clash between Congress and President Andrew Johnson during Reconstruction?

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The impeachment of Andrew Johnson was a pivotal event that stemmed from the intense conflict between Congress and the President during the Reconstruction era. Following the Civil War, there was a significant struggle over how to rebuild and integrate the Southern states back into the Union, which included determining the rights of formerly enslaved individuals as well.

Johnson, who succeeded Lincoln, espoused a lenient approach towards the South and often clashed with the more radical factions of Congress that sought to implement stricter measures to ensure civil rights and equality for African Americans. His actions, such as vetoing key legislation aimed at protecting those rights and circumventing Congressional authority, led to mounting tensions.

Ultimately, Congress sought to curb Johnson's power through the Tenure of Office Act, which was designed to restrict the President's ability to dismiss certain officeholders without Senate approval. Johnson's violation of this act by dismissing Secretary of War Edwin Stanton led to his impeachment by the House of Representatives. This event highlighted the significant power struggle between the legislative and executive branches during a transformative period in American history.

The impeachment trial then moved to the Senate, where Johnson was acquitted but only by a narrow margin. This conflict not only demonstrated the power dynamics within the federal government but also set a precedent for

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