Final answer:
Lincoln called upon the emancipated to refrain from violence unless necessary for self-defense to promote peace and aid in the transition during the Civil War and Reconstruction, and to maintain the Union's moral standing.
Step-by-step explanation:
President Abraham Lincoln's proclamation urged those declared free to abstain from violence except in self-defense to mitigate the risk of their actions undermining the Union's moral high ground and to ensure that the change in legal status for the enslaved individuals did not lead to increased violence or chaos that might impede the restoration of the nation. His stance reflected his broader approach to the Civil War and emancipation, consistently framing it within the context of military necessity for preserving the Union, rather than as a standalone moral issue. By advocating for self-restraint except in self-defense, Lincoln sought to facilitate a more orderly and controlled transition from slavery to freedom, minimizing potential backlash from Southern civilians or any acts that might be used as propaganda against the Union cause.
Lincoln's appeal for peaceful behavior echoed his earlier sentiments expressed in his inaugural address, where he emphasized reconciliation and the permanent nature of the Union, appealing to 'the better angels of our nature.' The aim was also to prevent any acts that could be construed as vindictive or barbaric which might compromise the Union's standing both domestically and internationally. The call for peace also reflected Lincoln's foresight in envisioning the Reconstruction period that would follow the war, hoping to mend the ties between the North and the South with as little additional strife as possible.