Lincoln and the Politics of Slavery: The Other Thirteenth Amendment and the Struggle to Save the Union

In his book, Daniel Crofts explores Abraham Lincoln's overlooked attempt to accept a constitutional amendment that barred Congress from interfering with slavery in the slave states in 1861, revealing the hidden history and political maneuvering behind it. Crofts challenges the view that the wartime momentum toward emancipation originated before the first shots were fired and presents a relentlessly honest portrayal of America's most admired president.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 368 pages
\n Publication date: 28 February 2021
\n Publisher: The University of North Carolina Press
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In his groundbreaking work, Daniel Crofts delves into a lesser-known chapter of Abraham Lincoln's illustrious life, exploring his role as the Great Emancipator. While Lincoln harbored a deep hatred for slavery, he believed it to be lawful in the places where it already existed and never envisioned embarking on a war to eradicate it. In 1861, facing the imminent threat of war and the preservation of the Union, the newly elected president made a strategic move. Recognizing the need for a compromise, Lincoln offered to accept a constitutional amendment that would prohibit Congress from interfering with slavery in the slave states. This pivotal overture was made in Lincoln's first inaugural address.

However, Crofts unveils the hidden history and political maneuvers behind the failed attempt to enact this amendment, which stands in stark contrast to the actual Thirteenth Amendment of 1865 that brought an end to slavery. This compelling book sheds light on an overlooked aspect of Lincoln's statecraft and presents a relentlessly honest portrayal of America's most admired president. Crofts challenges the notion advanced by certain Lincoln scholars that the wartime momentum toward emancipation originated well before the first shots were fired. While Lincoln indeed became the Great Emancipator, his initial intentions were not focused on this goal when he assumed office. It was only during the intense crucible of combat that the war to save the Union transformed into a war for freedom.

Through meticulous research and a fresh perspective, Crofts delves into the complex web of events that shaped Lincoln's decision-making during this critical period. He sheds light on the political chessboard, where influential figures played pivotal roles, and reveals the strategies employed to navigate the delicate balance between preserving the Union and ending slavery. This book offers a valuable addition to the literature on Lincoln, providing a deeper understanding of his complex character and his unwavering commitment to freedom and equality.

\n Weight: 588g\n
Dimension: 156 x 234 x 25 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781469663944\n \n