What was position on preserving the union?

Abraham Lincoln's position on preserving the Union was unwavering and central to his political career and actions. He believed that the preservation of the United States as a united nation was paramount and that any attempts at secession were unconstitutional and could not be tolerated. Throughout his life and presidency, Lincoln took various actions and made notable statements that exemplified his commitment to the Union:

1. First Inaugural Address: In his first inaugural address, delivered in 1861, Lincoln clearly stated that he would uphold the Constitution and maintain the Union. He declared, "The Union of these states is perpetual."

2. Rejection of Secession: Lincoln strongly opposed the idea of states seceding from the Union and considered it a violation of the Constitution. He emphasized that the Union was a perpetual and indivisible entity, and any state's attempt to break away was illegal.

3. Proclamation to Union Soldiers: In his proclamation to Union soldiers in 1861, Lincoln called on volunteers to come forward and fight for the preservation of the Union. He stated that the purpose of the conflict was to "maintain the Union and uphold the Constitution."

4. Emancipation Proclamation: The Emancipation Proclamation of 1863, while addressing the issue of slavery, was also significant in reinforcing the Union cause. It demonstrated Lincoln's willingness to use whatever means necessary to achieve victory and preserve the Union.

5. Gettysburg Address: Lincoln's Gettysburg Address, delivered in 1863, emphasized the importance of the Union and the principles of liberty, equality, and self-government that it embodied. He declared, "We here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain—that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom—and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth."

6. Second Inaugural Address: In his second inaugural address in 1865, Lincoln stressed that the Union must be preserved even at a great cost. He said, "We must not piece out the work of our great statesmen. We must fight through."

Lincoln's commitment to the preservation of the Union was unwavering throughout his political career and presidency. He viewed the Union as a sacred trust that had to be protected and defended against any forces that sought to divide it. His actions, speeches, and policies were all centered around this fundamental principle, and he is widely regarded as a champion of the Union.