Question

Which statement best describes the underlying reason for Andrew Johnson’s impeachment?

He appointed corrupt cabinet members and ignored their illegal activities
He showed leniency towards the former Confederate states after the Civil War
He refused to show support for constitutional amendments to protect freed slaves

Answer 1

He showed leniency towards the former Confederate states after the Civil War

Andrew Johnson impeachment emanated from a power struggle over reconstruction policies. The house republican wanted harsh reconstruction conditions imposed on the southern states while Johnson chose to pursue the lenient policies of his boss, Lincoln who had been assassinated.