LAD #13

Summary: Lincoln's First Inaugural Address

Lincoln's first inaugural address is a very powerful speech that Lincoln gave to show America how necessary it was to remain a Union despite disagreements over slavery. Lincoln addressed that although the country was virtually split in half; those for slavery on one side and those against it on the other, the Union should be strong enough in order to prevail. Lincoln mentioned that it was physically impossible for the Union to separate, so being separate nations would be very difficult. Lincoln stresses in his Inaugural Address that whether or not the country goes to Civil War is up to the people, not to him. Lincoln believes that as long as no Constitutional principles are broken, the Union will remain perpetual. He also assures the American people that while he is President, their property, peace, and security will in no way be endangered or harmed. Generally, Lincoln sets the stage in his Inaugural Address for his Presidency and gives the nation a glimpse of the just leadership he will enforce.