- The Emancipation Proclamation: On September 22, 1862, just weeks after the Battle of Antietam, Lincoln issued the preliminary Emancipation Proclamation, promising freedom to slaves in rebellious Southern states as a war measure. This directly undermined the Southern war effort and caused outrage among Confederate leaders and their supporters.
- The suspension of the Habeas Corpus: In late 1862 and early 1863, Lincoln ordered the suspension of the writ of habeas corpus in several Union states, allowing for the arrest and detention of suspected Confederate sympathizers without trial. This action further increased the perception of Lincoln as an overreaching and tyrannical leader.
- Arbitrary arrests of military generals and civilians: Lincoln had several Union generals, including General Daniel Sickles and General Ambrose Burnside, arrested at various times during the war, sometimes for criticizing Lincoln's policies. He also approved arbitrary arrests of civilians suspected of anti-war activities, which drew criticism and opposition.
- Political arrests: Lincoln's administration occasionally arrested and detained individuals perceived as political opponents, including journalists and politicians critical of his administration. These arrests raised concerns about freedom of speech and individual liberties.
- Censorship of the press: Lincoln's government sought to control information during the war, censoring newspapers and preventing certain news from reaching the public. This led to accusations that Lincoln was suppressing free expression.
These actions, combined with Lincoln's strong leadership style and the overall difficulties faced during the Civil War, contributed to the hardening of General opposition to him among some segments of the population, particularly in the politically divided border states and in elements of the Democratic party.