Following the surrender of the Confederacy, a bill was passed by Congress and signed by President Andrew Johnson. It stated that it would "grant to all persons who have, directly or indirectly, participated in the existing rebellion [with certain exceptions] amnesty and pardon, with restoration of all rights of property, except as to slaves and [legal proceedings already instituted]... These "loyalty oaths" were signed by individuals in their county of residence. They stated, "I,__________, of the County of __________, State of Georgia, do solemnly swear or affirm, in presence of Almighty God, that I will henceforth faithfully support and defend the Constitution of the United States and the Union of the States thereunder, and that I will in like manner, abide by and faithfully support all laws and proclamations which have been made during the existing rebellion with reference to the emancipation of slaves - So Help Me, God." Then the signator was described as to complexion, hair color, eye color, height, age and profession and his signature was dated and witnessed by the Ordinary of the county.