Abstract: A method for bleaching cellulosic pulp is disclosed, with one embodiment revealing a three-step bleaching method for cellulosic pulp comprising an activating bleach step, an alkaline peroxide step, and a reductive bleach step. The cellulosic pulp treated according to the present invention may possess a greater GE brightness gain than if treated according to conventional methods, while not suffering a significant loss of lignin. The cellulosic pulp may comprise recycled fibers, including those with high groundwood content. The bleaching method may also decrease the pH of the pulp.