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9. How did Abraham Lincoln's personal views on race and slavery evolve over time?

Eura Memmory

Abraham Lincoln's personal views on race and slavery underwent a significant evolution over time. Earlier in his political career, Lincoln believed in the idea of colonization, where freed slaves would be sent to Africa or Central America to establish their own societies. However, Lincoln's views changed as he witnessed the realities of slavery and the inhumane treatment of African Americans.

Lincoln's evolution on race and slavery can be seen in his famous debates with Stephen Douglas in 1858. He argued against the idea that African Americans were inferior and that slavery was necessary for their well-being. Instead, Lincoln believed that slavery was a moral evil that violated the principles of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. He also stated that African Americans were entitled to their natural rights, including life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

In 1861, when Lincoln became president, he signed the Emancipation Proclamation, which declared that all slaves in the Confederate states were free. This was a significant move towards ending slavery, but it did not apply to the border states that stayed loyal to the Union or parts of the Confederacy that were already under Union control. Nevertheless, it showed Lincoln's strong commitment to ending slavery and recognizing the humanity of African Americans.

During the Civil War, Lincoln continued to evolve his views on race and slavery. He saw the contributions of African American soldiers and recognized their bravery and patriotism. He also supported the creation of the Freedmen's Bureau, which provided education and job training to African Americans. In his second inaugural address, Lincoln spoke about the need for reconciliation and the importance of creating a just and lasting peace.

Lincoln's views on race and slavery evolved because he was able to recognize the humanity and equality of all people, regardless of their race. He saw that slavery was a fundamental violation of human rights and that it was incompatible with the values of a democratic society. Lincoln's evolution on race and slavery allowed him to become one of the greatest presidents in American history, who led the country through one of its most challenging times and laid the foundation for a more just and equal society.