Which of the following describes the term 'Scalawags' used during Reconstruction?

The term 'Scalawags' refers specifically to white Southerners who supported the Union during the Reconstruction era following the Civil War. These individuals often faced disdain from their fellow Southerners, particularly former Confederates, for their willingness to collaborate with the occupying Union forces and embrace policies promoted by the Reconstruction government. Scalawags sought to aid in the rebuilding of the South and were typically aligned with the goals of the Republican Party, which included civil rights for newly freed African Americans.

The context of Reconstruction is crucial here, as it was a time of significant social, political, and economic upheaval in the South. Scalawags played a vital role in the process, often advocating for educational reforms and new political rights. Understanding their position helps shed light on the complex dynamics and divisions within Southern society during this transformative period.