Abraham Lincoln signs a joint congressional resolution pledging Federal compensation to states that voluntarily implement programs to free slaves.

Exploring the most important 55 months in American history
Abraham Lincoln signs a joint congressional resolution pledging Federal compensation to states that voluntarily implement programs to free slaves.
Abraham Lincoln submits a message asking Congress to consider a plan of gradual, compensated slave emancipation.
February 10, 1865 – President Abraham Lincoln unveiled a new plan for slave emancipation, and members of Congress demanded to know what happened at Hampton Roads.