Why was Andrew Johnson President?

Lincoln thought he needed the Tennessee governor. He didn’t.

The Atlanta Cyclorama, a famous attraction depicting the defenses of Atlanta during the Civil War. Source: Explore Georgia

Andrew Johnson is currently remembered as one of the worst presidents in American history. He rightfully receives much of the blame for the ultimate failure of Reconstruction. His racism and incompetence stand out among a host of fellow racists and incompetents in the history of the American presidency. In recent years, the historical judgment…