I was recently talking with a Civil War historian and he brought up the Hampton Roads Conference. I admit, I'm not as familiar with this, so anyone with a good book recommendation is a appreciated. HE argued that Seward enticed the South back into the Union by giving them a chance to rejoin and possibly defeat the end of slavery. I've done some light reading and it appears that this only came from the recollection of Judge Campbell, some years later. It's also generally accepted that Seward was saying what was needed to end the war sooner than later but he was very much in support of the 13th Amendment's passage and it was never truly in jeopardy if the rebellious states rejoined.
Does anyone have any context to add to this? Or a book recommendation?
Seward was a little "too radical" when it came to ending slavery for most Republicans, which is apparently why Lincoln was able to secure the nomination, from what I understand.
Does anyone have any context to add to this? Or a book recommendation?
Seward was a little "too radical" when it came to ending slavery for most Republicans, which is apparently why Lincoln was able to secure the nomination, from what I understand.