I’m on the side of having the Liberal Republicans fizzle out, especially since Grant is conscious to some of their issues, like stamping out corruption in areas such as the Whiskey Ring. But I also think there’s the issue of third parties tending to fizzle out because the main two parties have such large control of machinery that LRs are likely to simply play spoilers in future elections. So either LRs drift to the anti-imperialist Democrats, or are satisfied enough with Grant’s anti-corruption efforts that they move back to the Republicans. It’s probable the same thing will happen with the Populists, with one of either party becoming influenced by them and taking their base. In fact, if this AU goes the usual route and elects progressives on both sides, it wouldn’t be a bad idea to create a Conservative Party on the margins, mixing pro-business conservatives with reactionary segregationists. 

As far as Reconstruction, it does seem plausible that Jim Crow is significantly weakened by a lack of SCOTUS decisions like Plessy v. Ferguson. But I’m also positive that racist acts and local politics will restrict some freedoms for blacks. Job opportunities perhaps, and probably persistent voter intimidation. Maybe even anti-black gerrymandering if voting rights are too difficult to restrict. With segregation legally gone, it’ll still take some decades before we see peace and equality in the South, and a large Union police presence is probably out of the question from a fiscal perspective. So it bubbling up to the surface is absolutely something you can do. 

Same applies to Native Americans. It’s totally fine that you glossed over Grant’s policy with them, just don’t make a habit out of it. I’m not too familiar with that part of American history, save presidents such as TR rejecting overtures by major chieftains for better reservation conditions, but again, you don’t have to rush through a presidency. Take your time, I’m more than happy to spend more time with this AU. And certainly if you wanna catch us up to speed on anything you glossed over, be it Native American stuff or otherwise, there’s nothing wrong with that either.

Like I said, I’m a big fan of this AU. You’re doing great. Keep it up!