How Many States Supported Lincoln in the Civil War?
The American Civil War, which took place from 1861 to 1865, was a pivotal event in the nation’s history, primarily fought over the issues of slavery and states’ rights. President Abraham Lincoln, who was in office during this tumultuous period, faced a significant challenge in securing the support of the states. So, how many states supported Lincoln in the Civil War?
Lincoln’s Political Base
President Lincoln’s political base primarily consisted of the Northern states, which were against the institution of slavery. These states, known as the Union states, were committed to preserving the Union and opposing the secessionist movement. Initially, 23 Northern states supported Lincoln’s stance and remained loyal to the Union.
The Southern Secession
As the Civil War unfolded, 11 Southern states, including South Carolina, Mississippi, Florida, Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana, Texas, Virginia, Arkansas, North Carolina, and Tennessee, seceded from the Union. These states, which formed the Confederate States of America, were predominantly pro-slavery and supported the idea of states’ rights. Thus, these 11 states did not support Lincoln.
The Remaining Union States
Apart from the 23 Union states that supported Lincoln, there were five border states that were initially in a state of uncertainty. These border states, which included Delaware, Maryland, Kentucky, Missouri, and Virginia (except for the Confederate portion), eventually chose to remain with the Union. Their decision to support Lincoln was crucial in maintaining the balance of power in the war.
The Total Number of States Supporting Lincoln
Considering the 23 Union states and the five border states that supported Lincoln, the total number of states that supported Lincoln in the Civil War was 28. These states were instrumental in preserving the Union and defeating the Confederate forces, ultimately leading to the abolition of slavery in the United States.
In conclusion, while the number of states supporting Lincoln in the Civil War may seem relatively low compared to the total number of states in the United States at the time, the 28 states that stood by Lincoln played a crucial role in the Union’s victory and the eventual end of slavery.
