What term refers to white northerners who moved to the South during Reconstruction?

The term that refers to white northerners who moved to the South during Reconstruction is "carpetbaggers." After the Civil War, many individuals from the North relocated to the South, often seeking economic opportunities or holding political ambitions. The term "carpetbagger" originally had a derogatory connotation, implying that these individuals were opportunistic, as they were perceived to be taking advantage of the South's weakened post-war economy and political landscape.

Carpetbaggers often supported Reconstruction efforts and were associated with the Republican Party, which aimed to rebuild the South and secure rights for formerly enslaved people. Their presence was a source of resentment among many Southern whites, who viewed them as outsiders attempting to impose Northern values and exploit their region.

Understanding the role of carpetbaggers is crucial in grasping the complexities of post-war society and the challenges of Reconstruction, including the tensions that arose between different factions and the impact on local governance and social dynamics.