1) The Reconstruction period in American history can be described as a national debate over the definition of "freedom" for citizens, especially those citizens who had formerly been enslaved. How and why was freedom defined differently by freedpeople, Democrats, and Republicans? Who, or what, ultimately had the power to win the 'debate' and control how freedom would be defined for all? For extra points, compare and contrast the way "freedom" and "belonging" differed for African Americans and Native Americans. Use primary sources from the chapter to support your responses.
2) The North American "West" during the last half of 19C was home to diverse groups of Native Americans who had populated nearly every landscape. Why did the federal government support programs of extermination and assimilation in the West as a way to make the continent safe for Americans? Do you think this period is an example of empire and/or genocide? Why or why not? For extra points, compare and contrast the way "freedom" and "belonging" differed for African Americans and Native Americans. Use primary sources from the chapter to support your responses.