Those most acceptable to the whites were Hancock, Schofield, and Meade.

General Grant himself became more radical in his actions as he became involved in the fight between Congress and the President.
Military rule was established in the South with slight friction, but it was soon found that the reconstruction laws were not sufficiently clear on two points: first, whether there was any limit to the authority of the five generals over the local and state governments and, if so, whether the limiting authority was in the President; and second, whether the disfranchising provisions in the laws were punitive and hence to be construed strictly.

Attorney-General Stanbery, in May and June 1867, drew up opinions in which he maintained that the laws were to be considered punitive and therefore to be construed strictly.

After discussions in cabinet meetings, these opinions received the approval of all except Stanton, Secretary of War, who had already joined the radical camp.

The Attorney-General's opinion was sent out to the district commanders for their information and guidance.