Although many historians now date the start of Reconstruction to the Emancipation Proclamation of January 1, 1863 or even earlier, the creation of the Freedman’s Bureau is often associated with its beginning as well. The Freedman’s Bureau was first authorized in March, 1865, but it really got under way with the appointment of its first commissioner, Major General O.O. Howard two months later in May.
Many Americans do not know that the Bureau was part of the War Department. At the time it was established, the Civil War had not concluded and for official purposes, the surrenders of Lee, Johnson, and other Confederate forces did end the war. The Bureau was originally established for just one year, but its existence was renewed by Congress in 1866. Most of its operations ended on December 31, 1868.
Over the coming months I will explore Howard’s role in Reconstruction. He did much to advance the rights of African Americans, and some to undermine the same.
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