LAD # 19: Lincoln's Second Inaugural

In his Second Inaugural Address, Lincoln expresses his view of the Civil War and the Union whilst portraying the nature of two and their similarities.  He talks about how neither side (Unionists nor Secessionists) wanted a war, for there had been much appeasement and diplomatic disagreements between the two that had been bloodless and relatively peaceful (yet still proving to divide the nation).  Antebellum America was basically a peaceful war between the two opposing sides -- there were fights and arguments, but no bloodshed.  But, the extremism on both sides -- which resulted in the war -- was eventually accepted and rallied upon by both sides.  The surprising factor was the unexpected brutality and length that the war undertook.  Neither side saw the ominous and foreboding future until it had already befallen them.  However, this naivety portrays all of the similarities between the seemingly polar opposite forces.  Each side looked to the omnipotent and Almighty God to aid them against their foe.  Yet Lincoln refutes this statement explaining that no such prayer has been or will ever be answered, for God has his own priorities and agenda when it comes to war.  He may desire a short, brief, war with minimal blood spilt, or may convene the two forces until "every drop of blood drawn with the lash shall be paid by another drawn with the sword."  The overall purpose of his speech is more meant to expose the natural destiny of the country as an organized Union, and to press the people of the North to continue their efforts to ensure that America remains as such.