A historian is attempting to figure out what a historical document means. What term best describes this process?

How would lincoln's assassination change the direction of reconstruction? the radicals used this opportunity to take control of the plans. the south refused to cooperate with any plans after lincoln his death would put an end to all reconstruction plans. lincoln was too weak to carry out his plan and now it could be carried out.

Apurging of emotions, specially pity and fear

The primary goal of the abolitionist movement was to a) immediately emancipate or free all enslaved people. b) allow the gradual release of enslaved people. c) end the importation of enslaved people from africa. d) make mandatory the education of all enslaved people.