Monday, November 26, 2012

LAD #19: Lincoln's Second Inaugural Address




       As he spoke to the crowd that had gathered, Lincoln's second inaugural address had a different tone and objective than the first. He begins by stating the situation of the war, which according to him and the majority of the population, is satisfactory. Then moving to the divisions caused by slavery that had led to war. Unlike many believe, neither side wanted war but rather went to that extreme as they saw it as their only option. Secessionists saw it as the only way for their demands to be met, and the Unionists saw it a the only way to preserve the union itself. Perhaps not speaking entirely as a president but as someone angry with the evils of slavery when talks of those who "[wring] their bread from the sweat of other men's faces, but let us judge not, that we be not judged." He goes on to make more important points when he talks of the will of God when it comes to the war. He believes that the Southerners have committed an offense against God, and that they should not go to Him for protection. Though he also says that if the will of God is to continue to use of slavery to build up wealth, that they would have to follow Him. In conclusion, Lincoln believes that with the end of the war the nation should heal the wounded and enjoy peace.

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