The Reputation of Presidents Takes a Hit in Their Second Term

[Rob Wick]

Mike,

Don't forget, however, that compensated emancipation would have had to be approved by Congress since it controls the purse strings. I personally doubt that the Radicals would have approved paying a defeated South one cent for something that was on the way out with their defeat.

Roger, I agree wholeheartedly with Neely, which is why I believe not only would Lincoln have been stymied by the Radicals on anything less than total capitulation where slavery was concerned. I also think much of the public would have rejected anything that made their sacrifice seem unnecessary. While I have no solid numbers I would like to see a study on the average citizen's view of Reconstruction policy. I have also long held the belief that had Reconstruction been more punitive the Lost Cause school would have been less likely to hold sway throughout history like it has.

Best
Rob