In Lincoln, they illustrate a conversation between Lincoln and Stephens where Lincoln says the would need 2 Southern states to ratify. And Stephens mentioned Louisiana and Tennessee and then Lincoln said, Yes, and probably Arkansas too.
Assuming this conversation is grounded in good history, what was going on in LA, TN and AR that they would be likely to ratify the 13th amendment? Was sentiment of the people shifting after years of occupation and perhaps even a rebuilding of commerce and daily livelihoods? Or was it simply a function of there being strong pro-union governments in place that would steamroll the ratification process, even if not the most democratically elected or representative of the sentiments of the people?
mike
Assuming this conversation is grounded in good history, what was going on in LA, TN and AR that they would be likely to ratify the 13th amendment? Was sentiment of the people shifting after years of occupation and perhaps even a rebuilding of commerce and daily livelihoods? Or was it simply a function of there being strong pro-union governments in place that would steamroll the ratification process, even if not the most democratically elected or representative of the sentiments of the people?
mike
Forum Host
Bringing the