Abraham Lincoln During The Civil War Essay

899 Words2 Pages

We generally remember historical figures by what they achieve in their lifetime. Most historical figures had major setbacks before they could succeed. Abraham Lincoln is remembered for his vital role as the leader in preserving the Union during the Civil War and beginning the process that led to the end of slavery in the United States but not many people realize that Lincoln had setbacks also. He is remembered for his character and leadership, his speeches and letters, and as a man of humble origins whose determination and perseverance led him to the nation's highest office. Slavery in the south became a popular way to make money. Within 50 years the amount of slaves rose from around 1,190,000 to nearly 4,000,000. Around the time that slavery became profitable in the south, a surge of democratic reform crowded the North and West (Britannica School). As the demand to make profit increased, slavery increased also. The northern states were mostly anti slavery states and believed that slavery was morally wrong and cruel. These beliefs caused tension between the northern and southern states. In Britannica School, the article American Civil War explains, “More and more northerns became convinced that slavery should not be allowed to spread to new territories” ()Northerners felt as if slavery was taking more jobs away …show more content…

His election that November pushed several Southern states to secede by the time of his inauguration in March 1861, and the Civil War began a month later. The Civil War was not entirely caused by his election, but Lincoln becoming the president was one of the main reasons why the war began. “Lincoln felt that it was his sacred duty as President of the United States to preserve the Union at all cost”. () He was concerned for the future of the U.S. Lincoln proved to be a smart military strategist and a leader during what became the costliest conflict ever fought on American

Open Document