Abolishing Slavery- Did Abraham Lincoln’s Heart and Policies Converge-

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Did Abraham Lincoln want to abolish slavery? This question has been a topic of debate for centuries, as it delves into the complex political and moral landscape of the 19th century United States. Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States, played a crucial role in the abolition of slavery, but the extent of his commitment to the cause remains a subject of discussion among historians and scholars.

Abraham Lincoln’s views on slavery evolved over time. Initially, he was a strong opponent of the expansion of slavery into new territories, but he was not an advocate for immediate abolition. In his early political career, Lincoln expressed his belief that the institution of slavery should be confined to the states where it already existed. However, as the Civil War unfolded, his stance on slavery became more radical.

During his presidency, Lincoln’s primary goal was to preserve the Union. He believed that the institution of slavery was a threat to the unity of the United States. In his famous “House Divided” speech, Lincoln stated, “A house divided against itself cannot stand.” This sentiment highlights his determination to keep the nation intact, even if it meant dealing with the issue of slavery.

However, as the war progressed, Lincoln’s views on slavery began to shift. In 1862, he issued the Emancipation Proclamation, which declared that all slaves in Confederate-held territories were to be set free. This act was a significant turning point in the fight against slavery. While the Emancipation Proclamation did not immediately free all slaves, it marked a clear statement of Lincoln’s intention to dismantle the institution of slavery.

Some historians argue that Lincoln’s primary motivation for the Emancipation Proclamation was to weaken the Confederate war effort. By freeing slaves in Confederate territories, Lincoln aimed to bolster the Union’s military strength and ultimately secure victory in the Civil War. However, others contend that Lincoln genuinely believed in the moral imperative of abolition and that the Emancipation Proclamation was a reflection of his deep commitment to ending slavery.

The Thirteenth Amendment, which was passed in 1865, effectively abolished slavery throughout the United States. Lincoln played a crucial role in the amendment’s passage, as he worked tirelessly to secure the necessary support from Congress. In his last public address, delivered just days before his assassination, Lincoln emphasized the importance of the Thirteenth Amendment, stating, “This amendment will do away with all race distinctions, except the distinction of color, and this will be almost as good as the abolition of slavery itself.”

In conclusion, while Abraham Lincoln’s views on slavery evolved over time, it is clear that he wanted to abolish slavery. His issuance of the Emancipation Proclamation and his efforts to pass the Thirteenth Amendment demonstrate his commitment to ending the institution of slavery. While his motivations may have been complex, his actions ultimately contributed to the liberation of millions of enslaved individuals and the dismantling of one of the most heinous systems in human history. The question of whether Lincoln wanted to abolish slavery is not as simple as a yes or no answer, but rather a testament to the complexities of his character and the times in which he lived.

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