(a) The historical context of the speech is the American Civil War, which had been raging for four years at the time of the address.
(b) The speech reflects the events of the Civil War, including the death and destruction it caused, as well as the emancipation of slaves.
(c) The speech reveals Lincoln's intentions for Reconstruction to be one of reconciliation and forgiveness, rather than retribution. He emphasizes the need for both sides to come together and move forward, and for the nation to heal from the wounds of the war. He also expresses his hope that the emancipation of slaves will be a lasting result of the war.
Use the excerpt from Lincoln’s Second Inaugural Address to answer the question.
Using the excerpt, answer (a), (b), and (c).
(a) What is the historical context of the speech? Your response should be 1-2 sentences in length.
(b) What events does it reflect? Your response should be 1-2 sentences in length.
(c) What intentions for Reconstruction does it reveal? Your response should be 2-3 sentences in length.
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