What was the main goal of the Reconstruction era?

The main goal of the Reconstruction era was to rebuild the South and integrate formerly enslaved people into society. This period followed the Civil War and was characterized by significant efforts to address the aftermath of the war, both in terms of physical infrastructure and social order. Reconstruction aimed to restore the Southern states to the Union while ensuring that newly freed African Americans were granted civil rights and opportunities for participation in society.

The integration of formerly enslaved individuals was crucial for transforming Southern society. This included measures such as establishing the Freedmen's Bureau, which provided assistance in education, health care, and employment to help African Americans transition from slavery to freedom. Legislation such as the 13th, 14th, and 15th Amendments were also passed during this time to secure freedom, citizenship, and voting rights for African Americans.

While the other options mention various aspects of the historical context during Reconstruction, they do not capture the primary focus of this era. There were territorial expansion interests, Radical Republican policies, and debates over the presence of Union troops, but the overarching intention was centered on reshaping the South and ensuring a more egalitarian society, particularly for the formerly enslaved population.