The end of the Civil War was just the beginning of a chaotic period of rebuilding and recovery. As this History Channel documentary illustrates, the Reconstruction was almost as bloody as the years of war, as unscrupulous profiteers swept in to take advantage of the power vacuum that emerged in the South. Archival images and dramatic reenactments of important events show how racism, greed and anger merged in this turbulent era.

As theiwar ends, another battle begins.

According to the history books, the Civil War officially ended in 1865 with the surrender of General Robert E. Lee and his Confederate army. But on the streets of a newly reunited nation, another fierce battle was just beginning.

In 1866, the year immediately following the end of the war, America was supposed to be reuniting, healing its wounds, and moving past years in civil unrest. However, a closer look into this historic time reveals a sinister snapshot of discordant nation program, The History Channel examines the disturbing reality behind the murder, terrorism, and chaos that marked the uncertain period of Reconstruction in America. While a new government struggled to gain control, the subjugation of "free" black men and women continued in the former Confederate states - terrorist groups such as the Ku Klux Klan were formed, and widespread riots in Memphis and New Orleans left hundreds dead.

Aftershock: Beyond The Civil War provides a revealing look into the true horror of the Civil War aftermath - a story which, until now, has gone largely untold.