Very Presidential with Ashley Flowers Andrew Johnson: The Drunken Demagogue
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Oct 20, 2020 Andrew Johnson's presidency was a chaotic aftermath of Lincoln's assassination. His drunken inauguration set the tone for a tumultuous rule filled with disastrous policies empowering ex-Confederates. From his lenient Reconstruction approach leading to Black Codes to a chaotic speaking tour filled with violence, Johnson's erratic leadership eventually led to his impeachment. A narrow acquittal left a lasting impact on reconstruction efforts and his legacy remains controversial and flawed.
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Embarrassing Inaugural Ramble
- Andrew Johnson arrived drunk and rambling at his vice presidential inauguration, embarrassing Lincoln and Congress.
- He kissed the Bible loudly, was escorted out, and prompted calls for his resignation.
Reconstruction Denied By Legal Logic
- Johnson argued southern states never legally seceded and therefore federal punishment or reconstruction was illegitimate.
- He used that view to quickly restore ex-Confederates and enable Black Codes across the South.
Congressional Counterpunch To Rollback
- Congress passed the Civil Rights Act and the 14th Amendment to block Johnson's rollback of Black rights.
- Johnson vetoed and then urged southern resistance while Congress placed the South under martial law.
