We began chapter 23 on Reconstruction since we finished our unit on the Civil War. We learned that this period lasted from 1865-1877 as the nation struggled to find a balance between uniting the country and assisting the newly freed Black population of the South, men who were collectively called freedmen. Ben explained that he was very tired. It was his birthday today but he wanted to downplay it. He did enjoy the SunChips I bought him as I remembered his favorite flavor and brand. He told me he was going to be absent on Tuesday and I reminded him I would see hem next Friday.