To what degree was Abraham Lincoln successful in achieving his goals?
Background
The Civil War was perhaps the most momentous event that
the United States endured in its history. Author and historian
Shelby Foote said, “Any understanding of this nation
has to be based on an understanding of the Civil War…It
was the crossroads of our being.” The key personality
in that contest was President Abraham Lincoln, who had
the arduous task of steering this nation through the war
and also the more difficult challenge of determining a
course for peace and Reconstruction. As war leader and
peacemaker, he faced criticism from political opponents
as well as from members of his own party. This lesson
will allow students to explore Lincoln’s words,
speeches, and proclamations in order to understand his
views on secession, amnesty, and Reconstruction as well
as his hopes for the nation.
Objectives
Students will examine primary documents in order
to understand and evaluate Lincoln's plans for Reconstruction.
Students will be able to identify the specific proposals
Lincoln made for the readmission of Southern states,
amnesty, and opportunities for freedmen.
Students will analyze the conflict between the executive
and legislative branches in trying to assert control
over Reconstruction during Lincoln's term.
Students will recognize the need for cooperation
and compromise in creating federal policy on Reconstruction.
Students will recognize the significance of Lincoln’s
Second Inaugural Address in setting the tone of reconciliation
for the nation.
