What term describes the period after the Civil War when Southern states were reorganized and reintegrated into the Union?

The term "Reconstruction" refers specifically to the time following the Civil War when efforts were made to reorganize and reintegrate the Southern states into the Union. This period, spanning from 1865 to 1877, involved significant political, social, and economic changes intended to rebuild the South and address the issues arising from the abolition of slavery. Key elements of Reconstruction included implementing new laws to protect the rights of formerly enslaved individuals, establishing schools, and rebuilding war-torn infrastructure.

In contrast, the other terms provided do not accurately capture this historical period. "Restoration" can sometimes refer to the broader process of reestablishing previous governments or systems but is not specific to the post-Civil War era. "Regeneration" is not a term typically used in this context and does not relate to any historical phase following the Civil War. "Reconciliation," while relevant to the efforts made to mend relationships between the North and South, does not encompass the systematic reforms and policies aimed at restructuring the South as thoroughly as Reconstruction does. Thus, "Reconstruction" is the most appropriate term to describe this significant chapter in American history.