Thaddeus Stevens

Thaddeus Stevens as leader of the Republican Congress Reconstruction policy became a symbol to many for what was perceived to be a harsh policy toward the South. As white people in the north and south reconciled to some degree, and as the issue of equal rights for black Americans receded from the vision of both political parties, Stevens was viewed as a harsh and vindictive politician. In truth, he was a man ahead of his time. He saw the issue of slavery and racial subjugation far more clearly than did Lincoln. He should be honored by Republicans today.