Question

What is Lincoln's attitude towards the South, the eventual losers in the conflict? What Lincoln's attitude towards the North, the eventual winners in the conflict? Why do you think Lincoln devotes most of his Second Inaugural Address to a recollection of the how the war came about and how the war transformed the nation? How is Lincoln trying to unify the nation? Do you think Lincoln's wishes for the future have been fulfilled by the American people? Explain.

Answer 1

Abraham Lincoln's Second Inaugural Address promised a vast national future only a month before his assassination and the end of the American Civil War. The following is a transcription of his original draft of his remarks--the edits reflect the changes made by Secretary of State William Seward.  After the brief but remarkable speech, scroll down to learn more about what Lincoln's vision meant for the war, for the republic, and for emancipation.