An excellent study that will be consulted not only by specialists but by anyone interested in the history of the Civil War, American race relations, and American government. - American Historical Review ""A superb book that places the Reconstruction presidents - Abraham Lincoln, Andrew Johnson, Ulysses S. Grant, and Rutherford B. Hayes - in the context of their times and illuminates the difficult and complex task they faced."" - Florida Historical Quarterly ""A thoughtful and well-written book that deserves widespread attention."" - Journal of American History