Reconstruction -- the period after the Civil War -- was meant to give newly freed Black people the same rights as white people. And indeed there were monumental changes once slavery ended -- thriving new Black communities, the first Black members in Congress, and a new sense of dignity for many Black Americans. But this time of hope didn't last long and instead, a deeply segregated United States continued on for another hundred years. Find out what went wrong in this fascinating overview of a troubled time.

What was Reconstruction? -- The end of slavery -- Lincoln's plan -- A blaze of glory -- New President, new plan -- The same old south -- The first Americans -- The fight for freedom -- Radical reconstruction -- The rise of redemption -- Dark days -- Legacy -- Timelines.