Question

short answer: why was president lincolns assassination such a terrible thing for the south? and how did things change when he was assassinated?

Explanation:

Lincoln aimed for a lenient Reconstruction. His death led to harsher policies. He was working on national unity and healing after the Civil - War. His loss meant a more divisive post - war South.

Answer:

Lincoln's assassination was a terrible thing for the South because he was planning a more lenient Reconstruction policy, aiming to heal the nation and promote unity. After his death, the Reconstruction policies became harsher, leading to more difficulties for the South in the post - Civil War period. Things changed as the more conciliatory approach he favored was replaced by a more punitive one.