First, there was a series of rooms in the museum that contained political cartoons of the time. To say that Lincoln was not a favorite is an understatement. The cartoonists clearly felt that he did not have the appropriate experience to be president, that his actions were not for the betterment of the country, and that he was less than presidential because of some remarks he made. I couldn't help but draw a parallel to today's commentaries (what's new is old).
Secondly, Lincoln (as we were all taught in school) is known as the Great Emancipator. There is little doubt that his actions ultimately resulted in freedom from slavery. However, Fredrick Douglass (who is identified in David Donald's "Lincoln" as one of three "Republican Radicals" who influenced the president to act) was not impressed by the president and the proclamation. During the "movie" at the museum the facts of the emancipation proclamation were described in this way:
1. The proclamation did not free any slaves in the northern states (because they were not know as slave states)
2. The proclamation did indicate that slavery would not be allowed in the former southern states, but since they had left the union, this did not "free" any slaves.
3. The only states that were affected by the proclamation were three border states, and the presidential move was not endearing to the population there (even though there were no slaves in them).
Very interesting indeed. Most impressive was the number of citizens that observed the funeral train as it moved from Washington to Springfield. Twenty-five per cent of the population turned out to pay respects. That was amazing.
"People who are really very weird can get into sensitive positions and have a tremendous impact on history." - Dan Quayle
1 comment:
Wow! I did not know that. I thought he just made Lincoln logs for me to play with:). Have a great day!
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