1. Preserve the Union: The primary objective of the Union was to maintain the territorial integrity of the United States and prevent the secession of Southern states. The Union viewed secession as an illegal and unconstitutional act that threatened the very existence of the country.
2. End Slavery: While not explicitly stated as a primary goal at the outset of the war, the abolition of slavery became an increasingly central objective for the Union as the conflict progressed. The Emancipation Proclamation issued by President Abraham Lincoln in January 1863 declared all slaves in Confederate-held territories to be free.
3. Restore Federal Authority: The Union sought to reestablish the federal government's control and authority over the Southern states that had seceded. This involved defeating Confederate military forces, occupying Southern territory, and implementing measures to ensure that the Southern states would remain part of the Union.
4. Promote Democracy and Equality: Although not exclusively a Union objective, the war had a profound impact on issues related to democracy and equality. The Union's victory paved the way for the abolition of slavery, which expanded civil rights and liberties for African Americans. Additionally, the war contributed to the advancement of democratic ideals and the strengthening of the federal government's authority.