The 41st Congress of the United States convened from March 4, 1869, to March 3, 1871. It was notable for being the first Congress after the Civil War, focusing on Reconstruction and the integration of the Southern states back into the Union. The Congress was composed of the House of Representatives and the Senate, with significant debates on civil rights and economic policies. During this period, the Republican Party held a majority, and key legislation included the 15th Amendment, which aimed to protect the voting rights of African American men. The Congress also dealt with issues related to the Transcontinental Railroad and the expansion of the federal government’s role in the economy.