Based on the quote, what is Lincoln's primary goal?

"If I could save the Union without freeing any slave, I would do it; and if I could do it by freeing all the
slaves, I would do it; and if I could do it by freeing some and leaving others alone, I would also do that."
-Abraham Lincoln August 22, 1862
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1 punishing the South
2 preserving the Union
3 not addressing slavery
4 freeing the slaves

1 answer

Based on the quote, Lincoln's primary goal is 2 preserving the Union. He emphasizes his commitment to maintaining the Union above all else, regardless of the approach taken regarding slavery.