The Union's reaction to the Emancipation Proclamation varied among different groups and individuals. Abolitionists praised the measure while racists and economically concerned individuals opposed it. Confederate leaders condemned the Proclamation. Overall, it was a significant turning point in the fight against slavery.
The Union's reaction to the Proclamation varied among different groups and individuals.
Abolitionists in the North praised the measure and saw it as a significant step towards ending slavery, which they considered to be an immoral institution.
They believed that the Proclamation was a strong statement on slavery, even though it only freed slaves in areas still in rebellion against the Union and did not apply to all slaves in all areas.
On the other hand, some Northerners, particularly those with racist beliefs and economic concerns, opposed the emancipation of slaves.
Irish, working-class, urban dwellers loyal to the Democratic Party, for example, feared that freed slaves would compete with them for jobs.
In the South, Confederate leaders condemned the Proclamation and reinforced their commitment to fighting to maintain slavery, as it was the foundation of the Confederacy.
Overall, the Proclamation was a significant turning point in the Civil War and in the fight against slavery.
It redefined the war aim of the Union to include the overthrow of slavery, and it generated mixed reactions among different groups of people.