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The Pros And Cons Of Andrew Johnson's Impeachment

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Andrew Johnson became the President of the United States after the assassination of President Lincoln. Johnson stepped into office after the Civil War, which was a fragile time for the country. As president after the war, it was Johnson’s duty to assist in unifying the southern slave states and the northern rebellious population, as one country. This was a difficult task to complete, especially after the assassination of a former president who really helped in the Civil War and with slavery. Johnson tried to quickly restore the states in the Union, however his actions lead to a presidential impeachment. Due to his violations and counterproductive acts, President Andrew Johnson deserved his impeachment. The decisions Andrew Johnson made and …show more content…

Johnson was vice president during Lincoln’s presidency, so after the death of Lincoln, Johnson was in line to become president. This differing view believes that his qualifications were justified because he had an experienced background in politics prior to his presidency. After the Civil War, he did not effect the issues of slavery with their freedom or rights and the Reconstruction of the South. This contrary view understands how Johnson did violate the Tenure of Office Act but they believe it to be okay because he only violated it once. As stated in the Articles of Impeachment of Andrew Johnson, he “did unlawfully, and in violation of the Constitution and laws of the United States, issue and order in writing for the removal of Edwin M. Stanton from the office of Secretary for the Department of War” (citation). This statement reveals how Johnson fired Edwin M. Stanton, who was his only secretary at the time, and replaced him. This is a violation of the law wether it happened once or more and a president should not have excuses when it comes to breaking the law. This contrasting view also believes it was reasonable because Johnson thought that if he did not fire him, it would have been unconstitutional. Later in history, Congress repealed the act which he broke. However, Congress repealed the act because they believed it to be unlawful and not

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