Abraham Lincoln Civil War Goals: Preserving Union — Reading Comprehension

The United States faced a profound national crisis in 1861 when eleven southern states decided to secede from the Union and form the Confederate States of America. President Abraham Lincoln, recently elected, was thrust into a conflict that tested the meaning of American democracy. His main objective was clear: the preservation of the United States as one, united nation. Lincoln believed that if the Union dissolved, the idea of self-government would fail, and democracy itself would be threatened worldwide.

Lincoln’s focus on Union over abolition of slavery at the war’s outset created controversy. Many Northerners supported fighting only to bring the states back together, while others, including abolitionists, wanted to end slavery immediately. Meanwhile, Southerners argued that each state had the sovereign right to leave the Union, especially if they believed their way of life—including the institution of slavery—was under threat. These conflicting perspectives revealed the complexity of the conflict.

In his first inaugural address, Lincoln stated, “I have no purpose, directly or indirectly, to interfere with the institution of slavery in the States where it exists.” This quote shows his cautious approach. Lincoln hoped to reassure the South, emphasizing that his primary duty was to maintain the Union, not to abolish slavery. However, his words did not prevent war. The attack on Fort Sumter in April 1861 marked the beginning of armed conflict between North and South.

As the war continued, Lincoln’s position evolved. The enormous cost of the war, both in lives and resources, forced him to reconsider the role of slavery in the conflict. By 1862, Lincoln had come to see emancipation—the act of freeing enslaved people—as a strategic necessity. The Emancipation Proclamation, announced in September 1862 and effective January 1, 1863, declared that enslaved people in Confederate states were free. This shifted the war’s purpose: it was now about both Union and freedom. Lincoln explained, “If I could save the Union without freeing any slave, I would do it... but I intend no modification of my oft-expressed personal wish that all men everywhere could be free.” This demonstrated his moral struggle and the tensions between political and ethical goals.

Different groups responded to Lincoln’s actions in diverse ways. Some Union soldiers fought only to keep the nation together, while others felt inspired by the new moral cause. Many enslaved people saw the Emancipation Proclamation as a promise of hope and began seeking freedom behind Union lines. On the other hand, many white Southerners felt betrayed and more determined to resist what they saw as federal interference in their affairs.

Lincoln’s leadership was marked by difficult decisions, debates over compromise, and pressures from both political allies and opponents. He faced criticism for moving too slowly on emancipation from radicals and for moving too quickly from conservatives. In the end, Lincoln’s unwavering commitment to the Union, combined with the eventual decision to link the war to freedom, helped shape the United States' future. The Civil War ended in 1865 with the Union preserved and slavery abolished, but questions of equality and states’ rights would continue to challenge the nation.

Interesting Fact: In 1864, Lincoln was re-elected President, even while the Civil War raged on, showing the nation’s trust in his leadership during a critical era.

What was Lincoln’s main goal in 1861?

Which event started the Civil War?

When did the Civil War end?

Why did some Northerners disagree with Lincoln?

What did the Emancipation Proclamation do?

How did Southerners view Lincoln’s actions?

Lincoln was re-elected in 1864. True or false?

What does 'emancipation' mean in the passage?