Existing comment:
I would save the Union...
My paramount object in this struggle is to save the Union, and it is not to save or destroy slavery.
If I could save the Union without freeing any slave, I would do it; and if I could save it by freeing all the slaves I would do it; and if I could save it by freeing some and leaving others alone. I would also do that.
Letter to Horace Greeley, Washington, DC, August 22, 1862
In mid August, Greeley printed the "Prayer of Twenty Millions," an editorial in the New York Tribute calling for immediate emancipation. Lincoln's reply was meant to be published and read. Everyone would then know where the President stood on Union and the war. |