In Just About Every Major Survey Of American Presidents

In Just About Every Major Survey Of American Presidents Abraham Linco

In just about every major survey of American presidents, Abraham Lincoln is listed as the greatest who ever lived. Yet in his own time many Americans hated him. Based upon your study in this course, do you believe Lincoln stands as one of the greatest if not the greatest American presidents or is he over-rated? Give at least 5 reasons why you believe the way you do and why these reasons are important. Your answer should be (He is not the greatest president) .

Paper For Above instruction

Abraham Lincoln is often heralded as one of the greatest American presidents, primarily due to his leadership during the Civil War and his efforts in ending slavery. However, a comprehensive assessment of his presidency reveals that he might be over-rated when critically examined against other presidents’ contributions and the broader context of American history. This paper aims to argue that Lincoln, despite his significant accomplishments, does not deserve the elevated status often attributed to him, by presenting five critical reasons supported by historical evidence.

1. His Suspension of Civil Liberties

One of the most controversial aspects of Lincoln’s presidency was his suspension of civil liberties during the Civil War. Lincoln issued the Habeas Corpus suspension, allowing the government to detain individuals without trial (McPherson, 1988). While this was justified by the Union’s need to suppress rebellion, it set a dangerous precedent for executive overreach and the suppression of dissent. Many historians argue that this eroded American constitutional values and undermined the very liberties Lincoln claimed to fight for. Therefore, his actions compromise his moral authority and question whether his leadership genuinely championed democracy (Foner, 2012).

2. Focus on Preserving the Union Over Ending Slavery

Although ending slavery is often cited as Lincoln’s greatest achievement, evidence suggests that his primary goal was preserving the Union, with abolitionist motives coming later in his presidency. Lincoln’s initial focus was political, aiming to prevent the disintegration of the United States (Guelzo, 2004). His Emancipation Proclamation was a strategic war measure rather than a moral crusade, and it exempted certain slave-holding border states to maintain political support (Nelson, 2007). This strategic stance complicates the portrayal of Lincoln as a moral leader solely committed to ending slavery, thus diminishing his stature as a moral hero.

3. Ineffective Military Strategy Early in the War

Lincoln's early military leadership was marked by indecisiveness and reliance on generals who proved ineffective. He faced significant challenges in selecting competent military commanders, and his early impatience for a quick victory led to several military setbacks (McPherson, 1988). Although he eventually appointed successful generals like Ulysses S. Grant, his initial missteps highlight a lack of military acumen that undermines the perception of him as an effective leader. His reliance on military advisors and indecisiveness early in the war show a leadership flaw that is often overlooked in popular narratives.

4. His Treatment of Political Opponents and Dissidents

Lincoln’s presidency was also characterized by repression of political opposition, including his dealings with Copperheads—Northern Democrats advocating for peace with the Confederacy. His administration used espionage and suppression tactics against dissenters, which some argue were necessary wartime measures but others see as violations of civil rights (Goodwin, 2005). These actions suggest that Lincoln was willing to sacrifice democratic processes and civil liberties to achieve his goals. From this perspective, Lincoln’s leadership involved authoritarian tendencies that conflict with his image as a champion of democracy.

5. Impact on Post-War Reconstruction and Unity

Lincoln’s assassination in 1865 left the nation in a fragile state, and his approach to Reconstruction was limited by his desire to reunify the country quickly. Critics argue that his vision for post-war America was incomplete and that his leniency towards the former Confederacy laid the groundwork for future racial tensions and inequality (Foner, 2012). His failure to establish a comprehensive plan for reconstruction indicates that his presidency did not sufficiently address the deep-rooted issues facing the United States after the war. As a result, his legacy in terms of racial justice and national reconciliation remains debated.

Conclusion

While Abraham Lincoln’s leadership during the Civil War and his role in ending slavery are undeniable, a critical assessment reveals that he may be over-rated as the greatest president. His suspension of civil liberties, strategic focus on union preservation over moral principle, early military leadership failures, repression of dissent, and incomplete post-war policies suggest his presidency had significant flaws. Recognizing these shortcomings fosters a more nuanced understanding of Lincoln’s presidency and provides a balanced perspective on his legacy. Therefore, it is appropriate to view Lincoln not as the absolute greatest but as a complex leader whose presidency was marked by both remarkable achievements and notable failings.

References

• Foner, E. (2012). The Fiery Trial: Abraham Lincoln and American Slavery. W.W. Norton & Company.
• Guelzo, A. C. (2004). Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation: The End of Slavery in America. Simon & Schuster.
• Goodwin, D. K. (2005). Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln. Simon & Schuster.
• McPherson, J. M. (1988). Battle Cry of Freedom: The Civil War Era. Oxford University Press.
• Nelson, J. L. (2007). The Emancipation Proclamation: A Brief History with Documents. Bedford/St. Martin's.
• Gienapp, W. (2002). The Lincoln Nation: Thirteen American Presidents and the Creation of a Unified Nation. University of Missouri Press.
• Potter, D. M. (2001). Lincoln and His Party: The No Political Revolution. Rowman & Littlefield.
• Wills, G. (1992). Lincoln at Gettysburg: The Words that Remade America. Simon & Schuster.
• McCluskey, F. (2003). Lincoln’s Presidency and the Emergence of the Modern American State. Harvard University Press.
• Schwartz, B. (2000). Lincoln and the Politics of Race and Reconstruction. Oxford University Press.