Government Policies During the Civil War: AP US History Study Guide
Introduction
Hey there, history heroes and timelord wannabes! Ready to dive into the swirling vortex of the Civil War? Hold onto your stovepipe hats because we're exploring the rollercoaster ride of government policies that sprouted like wildflowers (or weeds, depending on your perspective) during this turbulent time. 🎢✨
Preserving the Union: Lincoln’s Mission
When Abraham Lincoln took office in 1861, he had one major goal: keeping the United States united. Think of it as a couple’s therapist trying to stop a messy divorce. Lincoln saw the U.S. as one big family that shouldn’t split up, because splitting up would trash the stability and prosperity of the whole house. 🙅♂️🏡
In his first inaugural address, Lincoln made it clear: he was going to keep the Union together, and he'd do whatever it took. He even invoked the Constitution as the ultimate "No, you can’t leave" card. He assured the Southern states he wasn’t coming for their slaves, but he wouldn’t let them pack up and start their own country either. Imagine telling your sibling, "You can keep your room messy, but you’re not moving out!"
Opposition to the War: Internal Struggles
Despite Lincoln’s best efforts, not everyone was onboard with the Civil War. The draft was introduced on both sides, leading to a backlash from those who didn’t fancy being "voluntold" into battle.
In the North, there were the Copperheads, also known as Peace Democrats. These guys were like the original haters, heckling from the sidelines. Then there were the infamous New York Draft Riots—imagine NYC turning into one massive, angry flash mob because people didn’t want to be drafted. Over in the South, "bread riots" erupted because, shocker, people get cranky when there's no food. 🍞🤷♂️
Lincoln’s 1864 reelection campaign was a wild ride too. His opponent, former General George B. McClellan, tried to woo voters with promises of quick peace. McClellan was like that substitute teacher who says, "Okay, no homework today." But thanks to some timely Union victories (especially the Battle of Atlanta), Lincoln pulled ahead and secured his second term.
Lincoln and the Border States: Tense Times
The border states (Missouri, Kentucky, Maryland, and Delaware) were like the undecided voters in ‘The Bachelor’ finale—a major strategic interest. Lincoln declared martial law and suspended habeas corpus to keep these states in line. 🛡️⚔️
By suspending habeas corpus, Lincoln basically said, "No time for trials; we need to keep an eye on you sketchy folk!" This was super controversial—like introducing a strict curfew at a college dorm—but Lincoln believed it was crucial to prevent rebellion.
The border states held lots of strategic goodies like factories and railroads, which both sides wanted. Maryland, being right next to D.C., was especially important. If it joined the Confederacy, Washington D.C. would be like a doughnut hole surrounded by enemy territory. 🍩
Emancipation Proclamation: A Game Changer
On January 1, 1863, Lincoln rolled out the Emancipation Proclamation. It was partly a military strategy and partly a major boss move. The proclamation declared that slaves in the rebellious states were free—although, spoiler alert, this didn’t instantly liberate anyone since the Confederates weren’t exactly keen on taking Lincoln’s orders.
However, this move reframed the war’s goals to include both emancipation and preservation of the Union. Enslaved people helped themselves to freedom by running to Union lines, and African Americans joined the Union Army, famously including the 54th Massachusetts Regiment. 🏃♂️🔔
The proclamation also threw a wrench into the Confederacy's plans to get international support. By showing the world it was fighting against slavery, the Union discouraged other countries from backing the Confederacy.
Restoring the Nation: Speeches that Echoed
Lincoln wasn’t just a president; he was a speech-giving wizard. On November 19, 1863, he delivered the Gettysburg Address at the dedication of the Soldiers' National Cemetery. In just a few short minutes, Lincoln honored fallen soldiers and redefined the war as a struggle for equality and a government of the people. Not too shabby for a speech as short as a tweet! 🗣️
His Second Inaugural Address, delivered on March 4, 1865, was another masterpiece. With the war nearing its end, Lincoln called for peace and reconciliation, emphasizing "malice toward none, with charity for all." He was like a national therapist, hoping to heal a war-torn country. 🕊️
Key Terms to Know
- 54th Massachusetts Regiment: One of the first official African American units in the U.S., known for their bravery, particularly in the assault on Fort Wagner.
- Battle of Atlanta: A significant Union victory in July 1864 under General Sherman, boosting Northern morale and aiding Lincoln's reelection.
- Bread Riots: Civil disturbances in the Confederacy due to food shortages. People gotta eat, y’know.
- Copperheads/Peace Democrats: Northern Democrats who opposed the Civil War and wanted peace with the Confederacy. Peace out, man ✌️.
- Draft (Conscription): System for selecting individuals for military service; definitely not a popular policy.
- Emancipation Proclamation: Lincoln’s proclamation that freed slaves in rebellious states, shifting the war’s purpose towards ending slavery.
- Gettysburg Address: Lincoln’s speech that redefined the Civil War’s purpose towards equality.
- Habeas Corpus Suspension: Lincoln’s controversial temporary suspension of the right to a trial, aimed at controlling rebellion.
- Martial Law: Military control over normal civilian functions during emergencies.
- New York Draft Riots: Massive 1863 protests against the draft in NYC; things got chaotic.
- Second Inaugural Address: Lincoln’s speech focusing on reconciliation and peace as the Civil War wound down.
Conclusion
So there you have it, folks! Navigating the Civil War was like playing a high-stakes game of chess while riding a roller coaster during a hurricane. Lincoln had to make some tough calls, from suspending habeas corpus to issuing the Emancipation Proclamation. It was a wild, bumpy ride, but these policies were instrumental in shaping the war’s outcome and paving the way for the reconstruction of the nation.
Now, go forth and conquer your AP US History exam with the wisdom of Honest Abe and the determination of a Union soldier! 💪📚
