LAD/Blog #15: Lincoln's First Inaugural Address

In his first address, Lincoln starts by immediately addressing the obvious tensions between the North and the South. He had previously stated he will not get involved in the issue of slavery, for even more problems could arise and the South would have no reason not to secede, but focuses on a balance of power in each state compared to federal power. Lincoln firmly believes in the constitution and reiterates that he will uphold the values in the constitution, and also uses the constitution in his speech reading straight from it. Lincoln has arguably entered office at the most difficult time. Some states are threatening to secede, but he addresses this issue with talking about how regardless of whether or not a few states wish to leave the union, unless every state leaves the union the union still exists. This was a way to bring bout hope with all the chaos going on at this time. He stresses that no violence or blood should be shed or necessary. It is his job to preserve the union, and his job to make sure laws are enforced making sure the union remains preserved. He expects people to respect the Supreme Court, but that they maintain control over it so ‘democracy does not disappear.’ On the topic of slaves, he recognizes that America is completely split, but addresses the issue by saying that men should think long and hard about their beliefs, what is wrong, what is right, and also to think about if secession and civil war is the right choice.