President Abraham Lincoln unveils a new plan for slave emancipation, and members of Congress demand to know what happened at Hampton Roads.
Tag: Thaddeus Stevens
The Thirteenth Amendment: Debate Begins
The U.S. House of Representatives opens debate on a constitutional amendment abolishing slavery that had been defeated last year. Supporters highlight moral imperatives, while opponents raise concerns about implications for states’ rights.
The Wade-Davis Bill: Executive Response
Abraham Lincoln is presented with a bill outlining the congressional plan to readmitting the Confederate states to the Union. His decision whether to approve this bill outrages many within his own party.
The Federal Lieutenant-General
Congress passes a measure reviving the rank of lieutenant-general, or general-in-chief of all U.S. armies. Most expect Ulysses S. Grant to be appointed to this new rank.
The Internal Revenue Act
A new U.S. law is enacted in the continuing effort to raise money for the war. This builds upon the notion of income taxation.
The Legal Tender Act
Abraham Lincoln signs a bill into law establishing the first Federal paper currency in U.S. history–the “U.S. Note.”