Abraham Lincoln revokes David Hunter’s order freeing all slaves in his military department. But Lincoln also declared for the first time that he had the power to free slaves as a wartime necessity.
Category: Slavery
The Day-Star of a New National Dawn
Abraham Lincoln signs a joint congressional resolution pledging Federal compensation to states that voluntarily implement programs to free slaves.
The District Emancipation Act
Abraham Lincoln signs a bill into law freeing the slaves in the District of Columbia, despite bitter opposition.
Introducing Compensated Emancipation
Abraham Lincoln submits a message asking Congress to consider a plan of gradual, compensated slave emancipation.
You Are Quite a Female Politician
After six days, John C. Fremont finally responds to Abraham Lincoln’s request to modify clauses in his controversial Missouri proclamation.
Writing in a Spirit of Caution
Abraham Lincoln addresses the delicate issue of John C. Fremont’s proclamation imposing martial law in Missouri and freeing slaves belonging to disloyal masters.