Kieran+O.+-+AL+-+FA11

Abraham Lincoln (1809-1865) Party: Republican (National Union 2nd Term) In Office: 1861-1865 Vice Presidents: Hannibal Hamlin 1861-1865 and Andrew Johnson 1865

Abraham Lincoln influenced culture with almost all of his major decisions. His involvement in the Civil War was the most popular part of his presidency. It spread a new type of culture, one where black people had more freedom. Other decisions he made that impacted the nation’s culture were the Homestead and Morrill Acts. They shared the land in the Great Plains with state government and US citizens. This spread culture because as people moved to the new land and they carried their culture with them. This cultural diffusion between the natives and the newly settled Americans helped lead to the cultural diversity we have today.

Lincoln had a perfect presidency. He was one of the most influential and greatest leaders in history. Strong leadership and intelligent decisions led the United States of America through the toughest time in American history. His two terms not only led America through the Civil war, but made advancements for the country’s people and infrastructure. Lincoln so clearly deserves an A+ for his fantastic eight years as president.

“ I have no purpose, directly or indirectly, to interfere with the institution of slavery in the States where it exists. I believe I have no lawful right to do so, and I have no inclination to do so.” A braham Lincoln is quoted as saying this in his first inaugural address. This seems to challenge the traditional idea of Lincoln’s terms in office. Most people think that he was an avid abolitionist while in office; however, his goal was to unify the United States. Such actions as the passing of the Emancipation Proclamation were not done for purely abolitionist causes, but rather to settle disputes between the North and South. He explained that his main goal as president was to unite the country.

As far as congressional relations go, Lincoln made out fairly well. He shared similar political views with those in Congress due to the united views of northern government during the war. He also used his executive power to speed up the law making process because of the fast paced war. Many acts were passed almost immediately due to the need for quick thinking during the war.

During the difficult time that Lincoln served as president, he played an active role in shaping the country. During his years in office, he made no notable mistakes. He was constantly a positive force in America. One of the best and most known actions of Lincoln was the passing of the Emancipation Proclamation. This historical document was a huge step towards both winning the Civil war and abolishing slavery. After the proclamation was passed, the Union added a huge number of black soldiers who had volunteered to fight for their rights. Although it didn’t abolish slavery, the Emancipation Proclamation took a step towards an equal world. Another important outcome of Lincoln’s presidency was the institution of the United States National Banking System. This system-enacted by the National Banking Act-provided one set American currency under the National Treasury. Both of these actions are vital parts of history that impacted America greatly.

The Emancipation Proclamation is the part of Lincoln’s legacy that has affected America in the greatest way. This proclamation freed southern slaves, and brought the nation closer to equality. It is because of the Emancipation Proclamation that America’s 13th Amendment prohibits slavery. This is an important part in today’s world because slavery still exists in many other countries like South Sudan, India, Khartoum, and Haiti. Although there is no way of telling, it is likely that America would still approve of slavery. The Emancipation Proclamation has seriously impacted the world today, as well as the past and future of America.

America benefitted to an incredible extent from Lincoln’s leadership. His supreme guidance through the Civil War is what made him an American icon. Abraham Lincoln was an A+ material president and he deserves praise for his historical legacy.

Works Cited "Abraham Lincoln | The White House." //The White House//. N.p., n.d. Web. 27 Oct. 2011. . DeGregorio, William A.. //The Complete Book of US Presidents: From George Washington to Bill Clinton.//. Memphis: Wing Books, 1997. Print. Siasoco, Ricco Villanueva. "Slavery in the Modern World â€” Infoplease.com." //Infoplease: Encyclopedia, Almanac, Atlas, Biographies, Dictionary, Thesaurus. Free online reference, research & homework help. â€” Infoplease.com//. N.p., n.d. Web. 27 Oct. 2011. . mischief, the frame of the Government under which we live this same people have wisely given their public servants but little power for. "Abraham Lincoln: First Inaugural Address. U.S. Inaugural Addresses. 1989." //Bartleby.com: Great Books Online -- Quotes, Poems, Novels, Classics and hundreds more//. N.p., n.d. Web. 27 Oct. 2011. .

//MLA formatting by BibMe.org.//