The Emancipation Proclamation, issued by President Abraham Lincoln in 1863, declared freedom to enslave people in Confederate states still in rebellion. While it was a significant step towards abolishing slavery, the proclamation faced resistance from both Confederate and border state governments.
Use of African American soldiers:
The enlistment of African Americans as soldiers in the Union Army was a controversial issue. While many abolitionists and free Blacks strongly supported it, some white soldiers and civilians were resistant to serving alongside Black troops. The fear that arming African American soldiers would lead to social equality or uprisings further fueled this controversy.
Draft riots:
The Civil War draft system, known as the Enrollment Act of 1863, sparked widespread resentment and resistance, especially in urban areas. This led to draft riots, most notably the New York City draft riots of 1863, where working-class whites rioted against the perceived unfairness of the draft and expressed resentment towards African Americans who were often exempt.
Treatment of prisoners of war:
The treatment of prisoners of war (POWs) during the Civil War raised humanitarian concerns. Both Union and Confederate sides struggled with overcrowded prisons, inadequate food, and medical supplies, leading to high mortality rates among POWs. In some cases, prisoners were subjected to harsh conditions and mistreatment, fueling public outcry and discussions about prisoners' rights.
Guerrilla warfare:
Guerrilla warfare tactics employed by both the Union and Confederate forces were controversial. These tactics often involved surprise attacks, raids on civilian targets, and sabotage behind enemy lines. The unpredictable and irregular nature of guerrilla warfare blurred traditional rules of engagement and led to accusations of war crimes and concerns about civilian safety.
Copperhead movement:
The Copperhead movement was a faction within the Democratic Party that opposed the Civil War and aimed to seek a negotiated peace with the Confederacy. Copperheads were seen as defeatist and disloyal by the war-supporting public and were often accused of treasonous activities. Their presence further deepened political divisions during the war.