HANDOUT THREE

This is the wrap-up of the Webquest. We have reviewed what we already knew at the start of the project. We have uncovered new information about the developments surrounding a San Antonio journalist and politician, James Newcomb. Now to combine what we know about the previous sections and compare them with this last section. This is an older Newcomb. He has not been too successful in re-achieving the glory he enjoyed during the early days of Reconstruction. Remember what group of voters was instrumental in the Radicals winning the 1869 elections. Now look at the chart again concerning the 1873 election. Notice what is different about that and the 1869 election chart. Notice how much of a difference there is in the totals and the results. Again, analyze the data and make an inference. What do you think attributed to the success of the conservatives and Democrats in 1873? Think back: were the Radicals trying to attract one group over the other in this election? Now look at the letters and articles on Newcomb. Evaluate the words and the meanings behind these words.

1. Does Newcomb still believe as he did when he was a Unionist? When he was a Radical Republican? Compare the beliefs of Newcomb in these three periods. Which two are more similar? Why?

2. Does Newcomb indicate how he feels towards African American involvement in politics? How does this compare with him as a Radical?

3. Remember how Newcomb felt towards the Secessionist when he returned to Texas in 1867. Compare this to how he felt towards the African Americans after 1873, especially in the 1880s and 90s. Evaluate this with the answer you reached about the results of the 1873 election and what group of voters may have impacted that election to result in a Radical defeat. Could this affect Newcomb’s feelings?

4. How do the Conservative Republicans and Democrats feel towards Newcomb? There are two articles to compare. There are two articles from Texas papers on Newcomb and two from outside Texas (New York and St. Louis). How do these compare?

5. Can you evaluate the Republican Party and determine what groups there are that are involved in the divisive conditions that exist in both the Reconstruction period and the post-Reconstruction Period.

6. What political party did Newcomb belong to in this period? He was the leader of this group in San Antonio. What were their beliefs?