What side of the Civil War was Abraham Lincoln on? This is a question that has intrigued historians and students of American history for over a century. The answer, however, is not as straightforward as one might think. While it is commonly understood that Abraham Lincoln was on the side of the Union during the Civil War, his role and policies were complex and multifaceted.
The Civil War, which took place from 1861 to 1865, was a pivotal moment in American history. It was a conflict between the Northern states, known as the Union, and the Southern states, which had seceded to form the Confederate States of America. The primary cause of the war was the issue of slavery, with the Southern states fighting to preserve the institution while the Northern states sought to abolish it.
Abraham Lincoln, who became the 16th President of the United States in 1861, was firmly on the side of the Union. He was elected as a member of the Whig Party, which later became the Republican Party, and his campaign slogan was “Free Soil, Free Labor, Free Men.” Lincoln’s presidency was marked by his determination to preserve the Union and to end slavery.
However, Lincoln’s approach to the Civil War was not without controversy. While he was committed to the abolition of slavery, he initially sought to preserve the Union without ending slavery in the Southern states. This approach was reflected in his “Proclamation of Emancipation,” which declared that all slaves in Confederate-held territory were to be set free, but only after the Union Army had captured the territory.
It was not until the 13th Amendment was passed in 1865 that slavery was officially abolished in the United States. Lincoln’s role in the passage of this amendment was significant, as he had pushed for its ratification and had worked tirelessly to ensure its success.
Another aspect of Lincoln’s position during the Civil War was his handling of the issue of states’ rights. While he was determined to preserve the Union, he also believed that the federal government had the authority to impose its will on the states. This led to the issuance of the Emancipation Proclamation, which was a federal act that declared slaves in Confederate-held territory to be free.
In conclusion, while Abraham Lincoln was clearly on the side of the Union during the Civil War, his approach to the conflict was complex and multifaceted. He was committed to preserving the Union and ending slavery, but his policies and actions were often met with controversy and resistance. Despite these challenges, Lincoln’s leadership and determination played a crucial role in the ultimate victory of the Union and the abolition of slavery in the United States.
