Question

What was the primary goal of the civil war prior to the issuance of the emancipation proclamation?

Answer 1

Before the Emancipation Proclamation, The Civil War was about preserving the Union.

Answer 2

Up until September 1862, the main focus of the war had been to preserve the Union. With the issuance of the Emancipation Proclamation freedom for slaves now became a legitimate war aim.