What did Andrew Johnson do wrong? This question has long been a subject of debate among historians and scholars. As the 17th President of the United States, Andrew Johnson’s presidency was marred by controversy and conflict, largely due to his actions and decisions during and after the Civil War. This article aims to explore the key instances where Johnson’s actions were considered morally and politically wrong by his contemporaries and historians alike.
One of the most significant wrongdoings attributed to Andrew Johnson was his violation of the Tenure of Office Act. In 1867, Congress passed the Tenure of Office Act, which aimed to prevent the President from firing executive officials without Senate approval. However, Johnson, in a bid to assert his executive power, fired Secretary of War Edwin M. Stanton. This act was seen as a direct defiance of the law, and Johnson was impeached by the House of Representatives on charges of “high crimes and misdemeanors.” Although he was acquitted by the Senate, the incident highlighted his disregard for the rule of law and the separation of powers.
Another area where Johnson’s presidency was marred was his handling of Reconstruction. After the Civil War, Johnson pursued a lenient Reconstruction policy, which many believed favored former Confederate states and their leaders. This approach, known as “conservative Reconstruction,” led to the re-admittance of former Confederate states into the Union with minimal changes to their governance and social structures. As a result, many African Americans were left without the protection and rights they had hoped for. Johnson’s failure to enforce the Reconstruction Acts and ensure the rights of freed slaves were respected is often seen as a significant wrongdoings during his presidency.
Johnson’s relationship with Congress and the Radical Republicans also contributed to his perceived wrongdoings. His vetoes of several Reconstruction-related bills, such as the Civil Rights Act of 1866 and the Reconstruction Act of 1867, were seen as an attempt to obstruct the progress of Reconstruction and maintain the status quo. Additionally, his lack of cooperation with Congress and his tendency to act unilaterally further alienated many of his political adversaries.
Lastly, Johnson’s personal conduct and demeanor during his presidency also drew criticism. His demeanor was often described as brusque and unyielding, and he was frequently accused of being disrespectful towards others, including members of Congress and the press. This lack of decorum and his tendency to act impulsively were seen as wrongdoings that hindered his ability to effectively govern the nation during a critical period in its history.
In conclusion, Andrew Johnson’s presidency was riddled with instances where his actions and decisions were considered morally and politically wrong. His defiance of the Tenure of Office Act, lenient Reconstruction policies, strained relationships with Congress, and personal demeanor all contributed to his reputation as a flawed president. While Johnson’s presidency has been subject to various interpretations, it is clear that his actions during and after the Civil War have left a lasting legacy of controversy and debate.
