Leaders of the National Movement: 1870-1880

National Movement in 1870-1880: Pioneers Shaping a Nation

During the second half of the 19th century, a period of significant change and growth for many nations, the United States experienced a surge of activity that would come to be known as the National Movement. Occurring in the years 1870 to 1880, this period saw the influence of several charismatic leaders who contributed to the shaping of America's political, economic, and social landscapes.

Benjamin Franklin Butler

One of the most prominent figures of this era, Benjamin Franklin Butler (1818-1893), became a major player in Reconstruction politics. As a Union general in the American Civil War, Butler later served as a congressman from Massachusetts and then as the Governor of that state. He played a key role in crafting the 14th Amendment, which granted citizenship and equal protection under the law to all persons born or naturalized in the United States. Butler's efforts significantly impacted the formation of a unified post-war nation.

Frederick Douglass

The former slave and renowned orator Frederick Douglass (1818-1895) was another influential leader during this period. He was a passionate advocate for abolition, women's suffrage, and civil rights. Douglass founded the National Association of Colored Men (NACM) and served as its first president. The NACM aimed to uplift and empower African Americans in the post-war era. Although he was not a politician, Douglass' impact on national policy and the African American community was profound.

Theodore Roosevelt Sr.

Theodore Roosevelt Sr. (1831-1894) was a lawyer and philanthropist from New York who became a central figure in the Democratic Party. As a member of Congress, he supported Reconstruction efforts and pushed for increased federal regulation of corporations. Roosevelt Sr. was also a champion of women's suffrage, and his efforts helped pave the way for the passage of the 19th Amendment, which granted women the right to vote. He was a vocal proponent of a stronger national government and saw the National Movement as an opportunity to advance progressive policies.

William Windom

William Windom (1818-1891), a Republican congressman from Minnesota, was another influential figure of the National Movement. Windom played a key role in the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1875, which aimed to protect the rights of African Americans to vote, hold public offices, and receive equal access to public accommodations. He also supported the passage of the Enforcement Acts, which aimed to protect voting rights during Reconstruction. Windom's efforts helped to ensure that the rights of all citizens were protected, regardless of race.

Ulysses S. Grant

The former Union general and two-term president, Ulysses S. Grant (1822-1885) oversaw the completion of Reconstruction and played a significant role in shaping the National Movement. Grant's presidency was marked by efforts to promote economic growth, stabilize the currency, and protect the rights of newly enfranchised African Americans. His presidency also saw the passage of the Amnesty Act, which allowed former Confederates to regain their civil rights, and the 15th Amendment, which granted African American men the right to vote.

These leaders and their efforts during the National Movement in 1870-1880 laid the foundation for a more unified and equitable nation. Their contributions helped to shape the course of American history and paved the way for future generations to come.