Chapters 11-12 Summary and Analysis

Chapter 11 is entitled "A People's Contest." With the outbreak of war, Lincoln's path is cleared. Initially, the public seems optimistic that the rebellious states will rapidly be brought to submission.

Building an army proves difficult for Lincoln. Volunteers from the free states are steady, but one of the first obstacles in bringing them to the capital is Maryland, which has a large number of of pro-South citizens who attempt to stop the movement of troops through the state. The other border stats hang in the balance, and keeping them loyal to the Union occupies much of Lincoln's time and drives his policies.

Union troops suffer an early defeat at Bull Run, indicating that the war may not be over as soon as many expect. Support for Lincoln, originally strong, begins to weaken as very little action seems to be...