Second Inaugural Address

Definition

The Second Inaugural Address was a speech delivered by President Abraham Lincoln on March 4, 1865, as he began his second term in office during the final days of the Civil War. In this address, Lincoln reflected on the causes and consequences of the war, emphasizing healing and unity, while acknowledging the deep divisions that had led to the conflict. The speech is notable for its poignant tone, focusing on reconciliation rather than retribution as the nation prepared for a post-war future.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Lincoln's Second Inaugural Address is one of the shortest inaugural addresses in American history, consisting of only about 700 words.
2. In his speech, Lincoln called for national healing and emphasized that both the North and South were responsible for the war's devastation.
3. The phrase 'with malice toward none; with charity for all' captures Lincoln's call for compassion and reconciliation after years of conflict.
4. Lincoln acknowledged that slavery was a significant cause of the Civil War, stating that it was an 'offense' against God that had to be addressed.
5. This address foreshadowed Lincoln's vision for Reconstruction, emphasizing unity and forgiveness as key components for rebuilding the nation.

Review Questions

• How does Lincoln’s Second Inaugural Address reflect his views on national unity and reconciliation?
  • In his Second Inaugural Address, Lincoln emphasizes the need for national unity and healing following the Civil War. He acknowledges that both sides share blame for the conflict, which shows his understanding that reconciliation is essential to move forward. By using phrases like 'with malice toward none' and advocating for charity towards all, Lincoln articulates a vision where former adversaries can come together to rebuild the nation in a spirit of forgiveness.
• Discuss how Lincoln’s references to slavery in his Second Inaugural Address highlight its role in causing the Civil War.
  • Lincoln directly addresses slavery in his Second Inaugural Address, framing it as a fundamental issue that contributed to the war. He refers to it as an 'offense' against God, indicating that it is not just a political problem but a moral one as well. By doing this, he acknowledges that the legacy of slavery must be confronted if true healing is to occur, setting the stage for discussions about emancipation and Reconstruction.
• Evaluate the long-term impacts of Lincoln’s Second Inaugural Address on Reconstruction policies and national sentiment after the Civil War.
  • Lincoln’s Second Inaugural Address significantly influenced Reconstruction policies by promoting a vision of forgiveness and unity rather than punishment for the South. This approach encouraged a more lenient attitude towards former Confederates, which ultimately affected how Reconstruction unfolded. The address set a tone that shaped public sentiment around rebuilding efforts, emphasizing collaboration over division. However, it also left unresolved tensions regarding civil rights for formerly enslaved individuals, highlighting a complex legacy in American history.

Related terms

Emancipation Proclamation:

An executive order issued by Abraham Lincoln in 1863 that declared the freedom of all enslaved people in Confederate-held territory.

Gettysburg Address:

A famous speech delivered by Abraham Lincoln in November 1863 that highlighted the principles of human equality and the fight for a new birth of freedom.

Reconstruction:

The period following the Civil War during which the United States focused on rebuilding the South and integrating formerly enslaved people into society.