Question

What theme is presented in this passage from President Lincoln’s Second Inaugural Address?

Answer 1

Some of the original causes of the war have outlasted the war. According to Lincoln, the Southern aggressiveness was motivated by slavery and a desire for expansion. He concludes by stating that the fight is lasting longer than the original issue.

Answer 2

The message of his Second Inaugural Address was that to finish the process of ending the Civil War was to heal the nation and make a move towards reconstruction and reconciliation. If the United States would be whole nation, it was important to repair the damage in the Southern States in order to show them that they are once again part of the Union.