Who were the Radical Republicans?

The Radical Republicans were a faction within the Republican Party during the Reconstruction era after the Civil War who passionately advocated for the civil rights of freed slaves. They sought to implement a strict Reconstruction plan that would ensure full citizenship and voting rights for African Americans. This group believed that the South should face significant consequences for the rebellion and advocated for harsh penalties, including the military oversight of Southern states to protect the rights of newly freed individuals.

Their commitment to civil rights was evident through efforts such as the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1866 and the 14th Amendment, both pivotal in securing legal protections for African Americans. Additionally, they played a crucial role in promoting the 15th Amendment, granting African American men the right to vote, thereby reinforcing their vision for equality and integration into American society.

Contrast this with the other options, which do not accurately reflect the ideology and actions of the Radical Republicans. The emphasis on states' rights and the focus on preserving the Union overlook the Radical Republicans' primary goal of social justice and civil rights during a critical period in American history.