In Abraham Lincoln: The Man Behind the Myths, Stephen Oates interpretation of the Historical Lincoln had three examples of Lincolns actions; Moral decisions, his expression and progression. The first illustration that I see is his beliefs in moral determination. He not only believed that ethically slavery was wrong, but also believed that he could do something about it. One way that he tried to change peoples mind was to pass the Emancipation Proclamation Act. The proclamation declared "that all persons held as slaves" within the rebellious states "are, and henceforward shall be free." Even though this Proclamation did not immediately free a single slave, Lincoln believed that it was a start in ending slavery. Lincoln contended in any case that blacks who had tasted freedom would never consent to be slaves again (p.115). He believed that once the blacks or slaves had a chance at freedom, Lincoln knew that they would never go back to being treated unequally. Lincoln was not much more than the simple saint, he was just an abolitionist. He was determined to stand by his word. He was willing to do anything and everything to get his beliefs out. Another action that I choose to illustrate his ways was his expressions. Lincoln felt so strongly about the Union that he expressed that the slaves were a tremendous source of strength (p. 105). He conjectured that having the slaves freed meant that the military would be much stronger. Even though this myth of Lincoln shows that he is a sinner because he wants the slaves to enforce the military and not just to give them their freedom, he still shows us that he believes in equalization. He also expressed that women should have the right to vote so long as all paid taxes (p.53). Lincoln was very liberal minded in his way of expressions. In addition, Lincoln also shows us that he did everything that he could to have any kind of progression. He did this when he became President and sig...
