Explain why Lincoln's assassination put the future of the nation in question. (4 points)
1. Lincoln's assassination left a power vacuum at a critical time in the nation's history. With the Civil War recently ended and Reconstruction in progress, the loss of Lincoln's leadership and guidance was a significant blow to the stability and progress of the nation.
2. The assassination of Lincoln also raised fears of further violence and unrest, as seen in the subsequent conspiracy to kill other top government officials. This created an atmosphere of uncertainty and fear about the future of the nation and its leadership.
3. Lincoln's assassination highlighted the deep divisions and tensions within American society, particularly between the North and South. The act of violence further emphasized the lingering animosities and unresolved issues that threatened to undermine the unity and stability of the nation.
4. The sudden and unexpected loss of Lincoln as a unifying and visionary leader left many questioning the direction and trajectory of the nation. Without his strong leadership and steady hand, there were concerns about whether the country could successfully navigate the challenges of post-war reconstruction and move towards a more peaceful and united future.