...I cannot swallow whole the view of Lincoln as the Great Emancipator. As a law professor and civil rights lawyer and as an African American, I am fully aware of his limited views on race. Anyone who actually reads the Emancipation Proclamation knows it was more a military document than a clarion call for justice. Scholars tell us too that Lincoln wasn't immune from political considerations and that his temperament could be indecisive and morose.
It is my belief that while there is a small element of truth to what the senator claimed, the 16th President was instrumental in getting the 13th Ammendment passed. It seems to me that Barack Obama makes the mistake of judging Lincoln on the standards of today. In his time, Lincoln was on the cutting edge of civil rights. Certainly by 1864. At the start of the war, yes, his focus was on restoring the union. But as the war progressed he changed his views.
Do you have the whole speech. Just want to make sure this is legit. Otherwise, most historians would agree with Obama's comments on Lincoln. It can be said that Lincoln was a complicated man with complicated motives.
This is the most complete text I was able to find. Most only quote the first line; IE the first 12 words. That would be taking his comment out of context. It may be that Obama is focusing on the Emanation Proclimation.
Lincoln said ;;If I could save the union without freeing one slave ,I would do so. History says that lincoln refused to sign the first proclimation becuase it was forever. The second one was for the duration of the war. or 1865. I could be wrong. Grant said:: If I tought this was about abolishing slavery ,I would resign my commission and offer my sword to the other side.
In an 1859 campaign speech Lincoln said,:: I am not in favor of making voters or jurors of negros,nor qualifying them to hold office.
In his innauguration (sic) speech Lincoln said;; I have no purpose ,directly or indirectly to interfere with the institution of slavery in the states where it now exists. I have no lawful right to do so and have no inclination to do so.
This message has been edited. Last edited by: ordmate,
