What was the general attitude of white Southerners towards Republican efforts during Reconstruction?

• A. They ridiculed, derided, and undermined every action of Republican bodies.
• B. They frequently supported Republican reforms.
• C. They remained indifferent to Republican actions.
• D. They welcomed federal troops to enforce laws.

Answer: (A)

White Southerners largely resisted Reconstruction policies, viewing them as an intrusion on local control and white supremacy. That widespread stance showed up as active opposition to Republican efforts: political ridicule, derision, and deliberate undermining of Republican governments at state and local levels. They organized resistance, used intimidation and violence to suppress Black political participation and Republican influence, and backed Democratic Redeemer governments once Reconstruction waned. While a few Southern whites did support some reforms or even aligned with Republican partners, the prevailing attitude among white Southerners toward Republican actions was opposition and active resistance, which is why that description fits best.