Identify the goals of Abraham Lincoln in responding to the succession of South Carolina and ultimately, the South as a whole
Abraham Lincoln had several goals in responding to the secession of South Carolina and the Southern states:
1. Preservation of the Union: Lincoln's primary objective was to maintain the unity of the United States. He believed that secession was illegal and that it would set a dangerous precedent, leading to the disintegration of the nation. His main goal was to restore federal authority over the seceded states and prevent the permanent dissolution of the Union.
2. Upholding the Constitution: Lincoln was committed to upholding the Constitution and believed that the secession by the Southern states was unconstitutional. He aimed to demonstrate that the federal government had the authority to maintain its control over the entire country and enforce federal laws within the seceded states.
3. Ending Slavery: Although Lincoln's initial focus was on preserving the Union, he also aimed to ultimately eradicate slavery. While he did not initially advocate for immediate abolition, he believed that the institution of slavery was morally wrong and should not be expanded further. By defeating the Confederacy, Lincoln aimed to weaken and ultimately abolish slavery throughout the United States.
4. Regaining Federal Control: Lincoln sought to regain federal control over the seceded states and enforce federal laws within their territories. He believed that the federal government had the authority to govern all states, regardless of their decision to secede. Lincoln aimed to restore the authority of the federal government and prevent the seceded states from establishing an independent nation.
5. Avoiding a Civil War: While Lincoln was determined to preserve the Union, he also aimed to avoid a full-scale civil war if possible. He sought peaceful resolutions, negotiations, and compromises to resolve the secession crisis. However, when it became clear that a peaceful resolution was unlikely, Lincoln was prepared to use military force to achieve his goals.
Overall, Lincoln's goals included preserving the Union, upholding the Constitution, ending slavery, regaining federal control, and, if possible, avoiding a civil war.