Answer :

Governor Edmund J. Davis was an influential figure in Texas during the Reconstruction era, serving as the 14th governor from 1870 to 1874. Here is how he exercised great power and created change in Texas:

  1. Reconstruction Policies: As a Republican governor during Reconstruction, Davis supported policies that aimed to restructure Texas's society and economy after the Civil War. His administration enforced laws that promoted civil rights for African Americans and sought to integrate them into public life.

  2. Public Education: Davis was a strong proponent of public education. He established a state-funded school system, including schools for African American children, which was a significant change from pre-Civil War norms. This initiative aimed to provide education and opportunities for all citizens.

  3. Law Enforcement and the State Police: To maintain order and implement Reconstruction policies, Davis established a state police force. This force was controversial as it was often seen as an instrument to suppress opposition, particularly from those who opposed Reconstruction efforts.

  4. Judicial Reforms: He enacted judicial reforms to ensure that freedmen received fair treatment in courts. These reforms included the appointment of judges who were favorable to the unionist and Republican causes.

  5. Political Reforms: Davis's administration was marked by its efforts to suppress Confederate sympathizers' control over Texas politics. He expanded the powers of the governor, which he used to appoint loyalists to key positions to strengthen Reconstruction efforts.

  6. Economic and Infrastructure Developments: Under Davis, the state witnessed improvements in infrastructure, such as developing railroads and telegraph lines, which helped modernize Texas and integrate it more closely with national economic systems.

Though his policies brought significant change, they were met with substantial resistance from traditional Southern Democrats and others who favored a return to pre-war social structures. Eventually, Davis lost his re-election bid, and many of his policies were reversed or dismantled by his successors, who were more aligned with conservative views.

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