Lincoln’s suspension of habeas corpus

Definition

This refers to President Abraham Lincoln's controversial decision during the Civil War to suspend habeas corpus, a constitutional right that protects individuals from unlawful imprisonment. He did this in an attempt to maintain order and keep the Union together.

Analogy

Imagine you're playing a game of soccer and your team is losing. The referee (in this case, Lincoln) suddenly decides to change the rules mid-game (suspends habeas corpus) so your team can have an advantage. It might seem unfair, but the referee believes it's necessary for the overall good of the game (the Union).

Related terms

Martial Law: A type of rule in which military authorities take over normal administration usually during times of emergency or civil unrest.

Emancipation Proclamation: An executive order issued by President Lincoln in 1862 declaring all slaves in Confederate-held territory free; it changed the nature of the Civil War.

Writ of Habeas Corpus: A legal action that requires a person under arrest to be brought before a judge or into court.