What characterized Presidential Reconstruction under Andrew Johnson?

Presidential Reconstruction under Andrew Johnson was characterized by lenient terms for the southern states' re-entry into the Union. Following the Civil War, Johnson adopted a more forgiving stance than many of his contemporaries, particularly the Radical Republicans in Congress. He aimed to quickly restore the southern states without imposing harsh penalties, which included allowing former Confederate leaders to regain their political power.

Johnson's approach included the quick implementation of the Ten Percent Plan, which permitted southern states to rejoin the Union as soon as a mere ten percent of their voters took an oath of allegiance to the Union. Additionally, he issued pardons liberally to former Confederates, allowing many to return to their pre-war positions of authority. This leniency was a key feature of his presidency and distinguished it significantly from the more stringent measures that would later be implemented by Congress during Radical Reconstruction.

The other options reflect a different perspective on Reconstruction. Strict punishment for Confederate leaders and support for radical Republican policies were not characteristics of Johnson's approach, as he sought to avoid alienating Southern populations and favored reconciliation over retribution. Similarly, immediate suffrage for freedmen was not part of his policies; while he did support the rights of freedmen, he did not advocate for their immediate voting rights, which