Editor’s note: This is the third excerpt from “A Horse for Mr. Lincoln” by Hon. Preston Manning, a devoted admirer of Lincoln, exploring an alternate history where Lincoln did not go to the theatre on April 14, 1865, changing the course of American unity. Illustrated by Henri de Groot.
Let’s delve into significant events that might have had different outcomes if Lincoln had not spent that fateful evening with the mysterious cavalrymen.
Reconstruction and Civil Rights
Post-war, Lincoln faced political battles with Congress and civil rights issues, working to reunite the country and secure rights for freed slaves.
He vetoed punitive measures against secessionist states and fought for civil and political rights for African Americans, opposing discrimination and persecution by groups like the Ku Klux Klan.
Lincoln’s efforts prevented bitter divisions between North and South, and black and white populations in America.
The Reform of Ulysses S. Grant
In his second term, Lincoln groomed Ulysses S. Grant as his successor, addressing concerns about Grant’s handling of military contracts and public funds.
Lincoln urged Grant to maintain integrity in managing Army contracts, guiding him to “higher ground” in public service. Grant heeded this advice, averting accusations of corruption.
Higher Ground on the Western Frontier
Lincold’s worries extended to the U.S. Army’s actions on the western frontier, particularly regarding the Pacific Railway Act and the Union Pacific railway project.
In May 1869, after leaving office, he journeyed west to Promontory Summit, Utah, where he drove in “the last spike” of the railroad to wild applause. During his presidency, he made trips west to oversee railroad progress and met with leaders facing opposition from indigenous tribes. General Grant and his commanders believed in total war against these tribes, but Lincoln worried about the consequences. In a fortuitous meeting at the White House stables, Lincoln urged Grant to consider a new strategy for peace on the Western frontier. He believed Grant had the potential to be a great peacemaking President, not just a wartime leader. Lincoln’s hope was for a peaceful transition in leadership to maintain the “high ground” on military policy in the West.
When it comes to the decision between war and peace, peacemaking should always be the priority.
The President awaited Grant’s response, concerned that his words may have been too bold. However, Grant surprised him by expressing his own weariness of war and willingness to lead a change towards peace.
Grant assured the President that senior officers and troops would support the shift towards peace, while younger generals, like Custer, may cause trouble due to their desire for glory in battle.
The President acknowledged Custer’s eagerness for war and emphasized the importance of prioritizing peace over personal ambitions for military glory.
Grant agreed to the President’s proposal, pledging to uphold honest administration and peace on the Western frontier as the next President of the United States.
With Lincoln’s support, Grant successfully secured the Republican nomination for President in 1868 and later won the election on a platform of promoting peace.
During Grant’s presidency, efforts were made to reconstruct the South and grant voting rights to African American males through the 15th amendment.
The Grant administration focused on reducing corruption in public funds, establishing the Department of Justice, and implementing civil service reforms.
Under Grant’s leadership, peace treaties were negotiated with various Native American tribes, promoting fairness and reconciliation on the Western frontier.
Grant’s presidency is remembered for his commitment to peace and unity, exemplified by his historic peace treaty signing with Sitting Bull and the Sioux.
The impact of the conversation between Lincoln and Grant at High Ground in 1868 is recognized as a pivotal moment in shaping Grant’s presidency and promoting peace.
Views expressed in this article are opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
Please rewrite this sentence. Thank you.
Source link
