Final answer:
Abraham Lincoln effectively managed the Civil War with strategic decisions such as the Emancipation Proclamation that altered the cause of the conflict. His leadership preserved the Union and laid the foundation for abolishing slavery and unifying the nation post-war.
Step-by-step explanation:
Assessing Abraham Lincoln's handling of the Civil War involves examining his leadership qualities and decisions that led to significant outcomes. Lincoln's determination to preserve the Union was paramount, and his strategic approach combined with his ability to navigate the political landscape proved effective. His leadership was marked by several defining actions, such as issuing the Emancipation Proclamation, which aimed to weaken the Confederate war effort by liberating slaves, thereby disrupting their economy and labor force. Though the proclamation did not immediately free all slaves, it fundamentally shifted the war’s purpose, aligning it with moral grounds and undermining the Confederacy's cause.
Additionally, Lincoln was pivotal in navigating the nation through its identity crisis, balancing the necessity of war with ensuring future peace. As battles raged, Lincoln continually sought ways to unify the nation, culminating in his vision at Gettysburg of a new birth of freedom. His approach to post-war reconstruction, though not fully realized due to his assassination, laid the groundwork for a future where slavery was abolished and the rights of all citizens could be considered. Therefore, while his tenure was not without criticism and difficulty, Lincoln managed the Civil War with a blend of pragmatism and idealism that was essential in reuniting the nation.