2009 marked the 200th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s birth; therefore, it is only fitting that we
look to Lincoln, arguably our greatest president, to understand more fully the causes, meaning
and significance of the Civil War. You will find the following documents as web links in Bb as
content buttons: Lincoln’s 1861 First Inaugural Address, Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address and his
1865 Second Inaugural Address. You are to read these documents carefully and then write an
essay, with a clear thesis, in which you address each of the following points:
A. Based on these documents, how do you think Lincoln understood the causes of the Civil
War? Be specific.
B. Based on these documents, how do you think Lincoln understood the significance of the
Civil War? Support your answer with examples.
C. Finally, conclude with your own interpretation of the significance of the Civil War and
Reconstruction for American history. Do you agree or disagree with Lincoln’s interpretation?
Lincoln & Civil War Paper Analytical Essay Page 1 of 2
Lincoln’s First Inaugural Address is available at:
http://www.bartleby.com/124/pres31.html
Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address is available at:
http://www.bartleby.com/43/36.html
Lincoln’s Second Inaugural Address is available at: http://www.bartleby.com/124/pres32.html
Sample Solution