Question

What was one reason why Lincoln pushed for passage of the Thirteenth Amendment?
Lincoln required its ratification for Southern states to be readmitted to the Union.
Lincoln wanted Congress to expand the rights of white people in the South.
Lincoln wanted to avoid punishing the Confederate states for the war.
Lincoln decided it was the best way to bring states together after the Civil War.

Answer 1

Lincoln decided it was the best way to bring the states together after the Civil War.

He pushed the Thirteenth Amendment to make the end of slavery permanent and create a clear constitutional basis for reunion and reconciliation.