Abraham Lincoln, often praised as one of America’s greatest presidents for his role in ending slavery, is presented in a new light in the Netflix docuseries “Amend: The Fight for America.” Hosted by Will Smith, the series critically examines Lincoln’s presidency, revealing aspects that starkly contrast with his celebrated legacy. Here are five unsettling truths about Lincoln that challenge our understanding of his time in office.
Preservation Over Emancipation
Contrary to popular belief, Lincoln’s primary goal during the Civil War was not the emancipation of slaves but the preservation of the Union. This revelation, highlighted by historian Christopher Bonner in “Amend,” suggests that the end of slavery might have been a strategic necessity rather than a moral imperative for Lincoln. He famously stated that if he could save the Union without freeing any slaves, he would do so.
Questionable Views on Racial Equality
Lincoln’s stance on racial equality was complex and, at times, problematic. In a significant 1861 meeting with African-American leaders, he implied their inherent inferiority to whites, undermining the notion of him as a steadfast advocate for racial equality. This meeting, detailed in “Amend,” reveals a side of Lincoln that conflicts with his image as a champion of equal rights.
Blaming Black Americans for the Civil War
In an address following the 1861 meeting, Lincoln controversially suggested that Black Americans were responsible for the Civil War. This perspective, explored in “Amend,” offers a stark contrast to the common view of Lincoln as the liberator of slaves and suggests a more complex rationale for the conflict.
Advocating for Relocation of Freed Slaves
One of Lincoln’s more controversial proposals was relocating freed Black Americans to a colony in Central America. This plan reflects his doubts about the feasibility of racial equality in the United States and underscores a lesser-known aspect of his presidency, revealing his willingness to consider extreme measures in response to racial issues.
The Real Motive Behind the Emancipation Proclamation
The Emancipation Proclamation, often seen as a moral victory against slavery, was primarily a strategic decision to win the Civil War. Influenced by abolitionist Frederick Douglass, Lincoln issued the proclamation more out of military necessity than a commitment to abolition. This fact, as illustrated in “Amend,” challenges the traditional view of the proclamation as a purely humanitarian gesture.
“Amend: The Fight for America” on Netflix offers a profound exploration of American history, encouraging a more critical engagement with the narratives we’ve been told about figures like Abraham Lincoln.