Key Decisions and Events of Lincoln’s Presidency That Preserved the Union

Introduction

Abraham Lincoln's presidency, spanning from 1861 to 1865, was marked by unparalleled challenges as the nation faced division and war. The preservation of the Union became Lincoln's paramount goal. This article delves into the key events and decisions during his presidency that played a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of the United States amidst the Civil War.

Details

• Election of 1860

  • Lincoln's victory was pivotal as it underscored the sectional divides.
    • The Southern states perceived his election as a threat to slavery.
    • His moderate stance on slavery appealed to many in the North.
      • This victory led to the secession of southern states, prompting Lincoln to act decisively.

• Secession Crisis

  • Lincoln’s initial response was to maintain the Union at all costs.
    • He emphasized that secession was illegal.
    • He called for a peaceful resolution but was prepared to use force if necessary.
      • This stance set the stage for the impending conflict and galvanized support for the Union.

• Fort Sumter

  • The attack on Fort Sumter on April 12, 1861, was a catalyst for war.
    • Lincoln's response was to call for 75,000 volunteers to suppress the rebellion.
    • This marked the official start of the Civil War, confirming his commitment to preserving the Union.
      • The fortification of federal property underscored the necessity of defending the nation's interests.

• The Emancipation Proclamation

  • Issued on January 1, 1863, this executive order aimed to weaken the Confederacy.
    • It declared freedom for all slaves in Confederate-held territory.
    • This decision reassured border states loyal to the Union and gave the war a moral imperative.
      • It also allowed for the enlistment of Black soldiers in the Union army, bolstering forces.

• Military Strategy and Leadership

  • Lincoln's choice of generals influenced the outcome of the war.
    • He eventually appointed Ulysses S. Grant as commander of the Union armies.
    • Implementing the Anaconda Plan demonstrated a strategic approach aimed at blockading the South.
      • This strategy aimed to cut off resources crucial for the Confederate war effort.

• Gettysburg Address

  • Delivered on November 19, 1863, this speech redefined the Civil War's purpose.
    • Lincoln emphasized a government "of the people, by the people, for the people."
    • It rejuvenated the Union's resolve to fight for a more unified nation.
      • The address garnered moral support and gave soldiers a cause beyond mere survival.

• Reconstruction Plans

  • Post-war, Lincoln advocated for a lenient Reconstruction approach.
    • He sought to reunite the nation swiftly while fostering forgiveness.
    • The ten percent plan allowed for former Confederate states to rejoin the Union with minimal conditions.
      • This foresight aimed to minimize resentment among Southern states, promoting healing.

• The Thirteenth Amendment

  • Passed in January 1865, this amendment abolished slavery in the United States.
    • Lincoln's support for this amendment solidified the Union's moral high ground.
    • It would help to ensure that the sacrifices made during the war would lead to a lasting impact.
      • This legal change reinforced the notion of a united nation that values freedom.

Conclusion

Abraham Lincoln's presidency was marked by a series of strategic decisions and pivotal events that were essential in maintaining the Union during a turbulent period of American history. From his election amid rising tensions to the final passage of the Thirteenth Amendment, Lincoln's actions were characterized by a deep commitment to preserving the United States. Through decisive military and political strategies, he not only confronted the immediate crisis of civil war but also set a foundation for a united nation moving forward into the future.