Texes Social Studies Content Practice Exam

Which statement correctly describes a political result of Congressional Reconstruction?

1. African American involvement in government offices and positions increased

2. The Confederacy was able to regain control of its states

3. Southern planters lost vast amounts of money when their slaves were freed

4. Freedmen were able to travel freely for the first time

The correct answer is: African American involvement in government offices and positions increased

The statement that African American involvement in government offices and positions increased accurately describes a significant political outcome of Congressional Reconstruction. During this period, particularly from 1867 to 1877, the Reconstruction Acts were implemented, and they aimed to reorganize Southern states and reintegrate them into the Union. This led to thousands of African Americans registering to vote and, consequently, many were elected to various political offices at local, state, and federal levels. For instance, some African Americans served in the U.S. Congress and state legislatures during this time, an unprecedented development in the political landscape of the South. This increase in African American political participation was a direct result of federal policies enforced during Reconstruction that sought to ensure civil rights and inclusion for formerly enslaved individuals. The momentum gained during this period allowed for social and political advancements, although these gains faced significant resistance after the end of Reconstruction.