Chapter 9 and Epilogue Summary and Analysis

In chapter nine, as Lincoln focused on encouraging state initiated emancipation in the states, the Radicals turned to the idea of a Constitutional amendment. Republicans presented a draft of the amendment to Congress. Democrats did not support the measure, and this led to a great deal of debate over the issue. Finally, however, in April of 1864, the Senate passed the amendment, but it failed to pass the House. Congress did repeal the Fugitive Slave Act in June of 1864.

Lincoln had always worried about the Constitutionality of the Emancipation Proclamation; therefore, when the House chose to revote on the Thirteenth Amendment, Lincoln threw his support behind the measure. On January 31, 1865, the House passed the Thirteenth Amendment. Shortly afterward, Lincoln would meet with several leaders from the South to attempt negotiations to end the war and to encourage them...