The Failed Promise: Reconstruction, Frederick Douglass, and the Impeachment of Andrew Johnson

In "The Failed Promise: Reconstruction, Frederick Douglass, and the Impeachment of Andrew Johnson," Robert S. Levine delivers a compelling narrative that dives deep into one of America's most turbulent periods. The book sets the stage with the hopeful yet critical juncture of American history when Andrew Johnson became president following Abraham Lincoln's assassination. Initially perceived as a progressive leader, Johnson's presidency soon disappointed the Black community, including the formidable social justice advocate Frederick Douglass. Levine masterfully recounts the intense confrontations between Douglass and Johnson, encapsulating the broader disillusionment with a Reconstruction era that failed to deliver on promises of equality and voting rights. Through meticulous research, including personal letters, speeches, and contemporary Black press, Levine not only portrays the evolving antagonism of Douglass towards Johnson but also provides a vivid exploration of the era's political dynamics and its lasting impact on racial justice issues. Published on August 24, 2021, this book is essential reading for those in adult education seeking to understand the complexities of racial justice and voting rights through the lens of prominent historical figures.