The Emancipation Proclamation of January 1st, 1863 was an emotional turning point for the United States. The Emancipation Proclamation freed all slaves in rebellion areas. Even though it didn’t end slavery in the whole nation, it gave hope to citizens that all slavery would end and transformed character in the Civil War. The proclamation announced the acceptance of black men in the navy and Union army. Below is the opening paragraph of the Emancipation Proclamation. It was delivered by president Abraham Lincoln.
“That on the first day of January, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty-three, all persons held as slaves within any State or designated part of a State, the people whereof shall then be in rebellion against the United States, shall be then, thenceforward, and forever free; and the Executive Government of the United States, including the military and naval authority thereof, will recognize and maintain the freedom of such persons, and will do no act or acts to repress such persons, or any of them, in any efforts they may make for their actual freedom.”
The Battle of Gettysburg was a turning point in the war. It took place in Pennsylvania from July 1st to July 3rd, 1863. It was one of the most crucial battles in the Civil War. It is said to be a turning point in the Civil war because the Union placed the Confederacy on the defensive and ended General Robert E. Lee’s attempt to invade Union territory. Gettysburg residents were concerned because solider’s graves were scattered all over hospital sites and battlefields so they pleaded with Pennsylvania Governor, Andrew Curtin to purchase apart of the battlefield for a resting place for the defenders of the Union. The graveyard is called “Solider’s National Cemetery.” They started moving the dead Unions to the cemetery in the fall of 1863. There was a dedication ceremony on November 9th, 1863 to honor all the men who died at Gettysburg with songs, prayers, and dirges. Abraham Lincoln provided the most notable words in a two minute long address.
What do you think would happen if Abraham Lincoln freed all the slaves in the Union?
I think if Abraham Lincoln freed all the slaves in the Union, there would be conflicts. People in the Union would have different opinions in Abraham Lincolns choice. The war could have lasted longer or Abraham Lincoln could have gotten assassinated sooner than it really happened. I also think a lot of people would be looking for jobs and there wouldn’t be enough jobs for everyone which would start arguments and people in the Union getting upset. Its important to remember that boarder states such as Maryland remain loyal to the Union while keeping slavery. Lincoln wanted total abolition to come from the people and not a presidential order.
Summary Map of counties covered and not covered by the Emancipation Proclamation. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Honestly, I was quite unaware of what the Emancipation Proclamation was before reading this. I think it’s amazing how it freed all slaves in rebellion areas. It’s unfortunate that it wasn’t able to end slavery as a whole, but it at least gave them some hope.
youresocreepy • Mar 25, 2015 at 10:40 pm
Honestly, I was quite unaware of what the Emancipation Proclamation was before reading this. I think it’s amazing how it freed all slaves in rebellion areas. It’s unfortunate that it wasn’t able to end slavery as a whole, but it at least gave them some hope.