Corning, Erastus (1794-1872) President Lincoln's views
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC01265.19 Author/Creator: Corning, Erastus (1794-1872) Place Written: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Type: Pamphlet Date: 1863 Pagination: 16 p. ; 22 x 14 cm. Order a Copy
May 16, 1863 resolutions from a group of New York Democrats led by Erastus Corning, along with Lincoln's response. The committee argues that the arrest of Clement L. Vallandigham of Ohio for treason had violated the latter's rights under the Constitution, and that arbitrary arrests will further divide the country and "distract those who should be united in suppressing the rebellion." Lincoln responds that Vallandigham was not simply criticizing the administration; he was encouraging desertion and attempting to thwart the raising of troops. Lincoln concludes by stating that he must continue to do what is required for the public safety. Monaghan 242; Sabin H41159. Missing the cover page. Same pamphlet as GLC 8707.
Corning, supporter of Andrew Jackson, was elected mayor of Albany, state senator, and member of the House of Representatives. He participated in the peace conference in 1861 in Washington, which was one of several last-ditch efforts to avert the Civil War. Vallandigham was an Ohio politician and opponent of Lincoln. He was active in the Knights of the Golden Circle, a secret order in the North of Southern sympathizers. He was arrested by General Ambrose Burnside for his speeches and Lincoln banished him to the Confederacy. The Confederacy also rejected him because he objected to Jefferson Davis's war policies.
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