The Emancipation Proclamation: A Achievement Or Accomplishment?

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The Emancipation Proclamation is a historic document written by President Abraham Lincoln. This document stated that of January 1, 1863, all slaves will be freed from seceding states. Many, such as Clement L. Vallandigham believe that the Emancipation Proclamation is a worthless act; however, people such as Frederick Douglas believe the Emancipation Proclamation was an accomplishment (Dudley 168). The Emancipation Proclamation is an achievement because it is an important document trying to free the slaves and avenges those who have died for freedom.
Frederick Douglas, a former slave, was known in the Union as an abolitionist, writer, and speaker (Dudley 168). He stated, “The rebellion suppressed, slavery abolished, and America will, higher than ever, sit as a queen among the nations of the earth” (Dudley 168). In this quote, Frederick Douglas expressed his thoughts on how better off America will be without slavery (Dudley 168). He explained that when the Emancipation Proclamation is in effect as of January first, America will remain as one of the top countries (Dudley 167). Mr. Douglas also stated, “Ye millions of free and loyal men who have …show more content…

The Slaves are free in the North, so avenge those who lost their lives and free the slaves in the South (Dudley 167). Clement L. Vallandigham was a representative of Ohio. He was a Democrat and disagreed with many of President Lincoln’s thoughts (Dudley 167). Mr. Vallandigham stated, “You cannot abolish slavery by the sword” (Dudley 169). He thinks that slaves can not be freed by fighting. By stating this Mr. Vallandigham contradicts what he was saying previously (Dudley 167). He contradicts himself because he is against the Emancipation Proclamation which is a document to try to free the slaves, not a fight trying to free the slaves. In this quote Clement Vallandigham agrees with Frederick Douglas and Abraham Lincoln (Dudley