Final answer:
Abraham Lincoln had a significant impact on the Civil War through his leadership, evolving stance on slavery, and strategic decisions. His embrace of emancipation transformed the war into a fight for freedom, while also having military and diplomatic implications.
Step-by-step explanation:
Abraham Lincoln had a significant impact on the Civil War. His election as president in 1860 triggered the secession of seven Deep South states from the Union, leading to the formation of the Confederate States of America. While Lincoln's primary goal at the start of the war was to preserve the Union, his views on slavery evolved over time, and he eventually issued the Emancipation Proclamation, which declared slaves in Confederate-held territory to be free. This shift in policy transformed the war into a fight for emancipation and freedom.
Lincoln's decision to embrace emancipation had multiple effects. It had a significant military impact by depriving the South of labor and potentially allowing African Americans to join the Union Army. It also had diplomatic implications, as it made it difficult for European powers, particularly Britain, to support the Confederacy due to their anti-slavery sentiments.
Furthermore, Lincoln's leadership and ability to rally support were crucial in guiding the Union to victory. His strategic decisions, such as appointing competent generals like Ulysses S. Grant and promoting unity among Union states, played a vital role in achieving victory over the Confederacy.