The 1860 elections were unlike any other. They were a close race between four candidates; Abraham Lincoln, Stephen Douglas, John Breckinridge and John Bell. This was an extremely stressful time in American politics due to the rapid changes in political policies. The election focused on the individual rights of states and slavery laws as America developed. Lincoln’s Presidential Platform allows us to understand the issues and promises that he dealt with in this time period. Lincoln was in a crisis of national importance, and this is a great way to understand his leadership and how he resolved issues within the United States. Lincoln explained in Plank Nine of his Platform that everyone in America is entitled to the freedom. We can analyze the promises made and why he made them.
Before delving into the specifics, it was clear that candidates were all in agreement on a general theme. This was an assurance of protection from the federal authorities or a mild level of supervision. At some point, each platform referred to a sense that the federal government will implement checks and balances as well as a sense that it would support them. The federal government, as well as each candidate’s own salary, promised to enforce the laws within the country. Each candidate sought to bring unity and trust to the state. They aimed their message at white voters, as many held radical views or ideologies regarding slavery.
There was much turmoil among the candidates during the 1860 election. Due to differing opinions on slavery, the democrats were divided. The southern democrats were more hands-off in their government. They could basically govern themselves. Northern democrats desired a federal government which would oversee the entire political process. The Constitutional Party did not take a side in the slavery debate, but rather assured that they would continue to follow a constitution-style government. The Republics were the most united and held a moderate view on slavery. In Lincolns platform, plank nine states:
“That the recent reopening under the cover and flag of our nation, with the aid of perversions judicial, of the African slave-trade is a crime, against humanity, that brings shame on our country. And, we call for Congress to act quickly and efficiently to put an end to this abhorrent traffic.”
Most northerners held a moderate position on slavery. Some even fought to end it entirely. The politicians had also adopted this attitude, promising the citizens that if he won the election he would reinstate the fundamental principles of America. Lincoln’s political campaign was brilliant, and it included social justice, ensuring land rights and liberty for all Americans. Lincoln’s people had so much faith in him that he was nicknamed Honest Abe or The Railsplitter. Lincoln portrayed a hardworking farmer who was in touch with the people’s needs and desired liberty. When analyzing the results of the elections, this political stunt was successful as he won despite only having a 40% popularity vote nationwide with four rivals.
He won even though he didn’t appear on the ballot.
Lincoln must have a plan in place to follow through on his promises, if the state rebels or does not adhere to national laws. The measures taken could range from increasing taxes on some states to fines and federal support for potential slave victims. The federal government could also create a single military to be used as a last-resort measure in order to end slavery in southern states. To end slavery, these are the measures you need to take.
In order to understand the reasons why Lincoln placed this plank at the top of his platform, it is necessary to look back into history. In our early studies, we learned that the British colonies had left British control due to the harsh treatment of their slaves. America’s founding principles were freedom and independence. However, as the nation grew and developed they immediately reverted to their previous ways. Lincoln, in his plank 8, promises liberty and freedom for all citizens of the United States. In plank nine, he tells the people to expect federal action if they do not follow the law.
This plank relates directly to the course theme, “A New World” for Everyone. It was made before to the American people, but then they quickly went back into their old ways. Lincoln wants a new government approach. The new world was about to begin in America. Farmers would learn to work and run their businesses without slaves.
We can recognize and understand the various promises made by the American public in the election of 1861. By analyzing them, we can better understand the reasons for the statements and the ways they were to be maintained. Lincoln’s victory by a huge margin promised a “new freedom” and a “new liberty” to the American public. He has also pledged to protect and uphold these laws. Lincoln’s trust in the people led him to change his paradigm and lead the people to new thinking.