AP US History in 1 Minute Daily: Northern Opposition in the Civil War (Day 137/309)

Hey APUSHers, let’s chat about Northern Opposition as part of my series- APUSH in 1 Minute Daily!

Abraham Lincoln, Wikimedia Commons

During the Civil War, considerable homefront opposition made it difficult for Lincoln to continue a war that endured much longer than originally expected.

Copperheads, Library of Congress

Northern Democrats, also known as the Copperheads, opposed the war because they believed it was unjustified and being waged in an unconstitutional manner. They preferred compromise and several secret societies hampered the Union war effort.

Presidential Proclamation 94, DocsTeach

Another cause of opposition was Lincoln’s suspension of the writ of habeas corpus which allowed the federal government to imprison individuals without the typical judicial process. This heavily increased criticism of the government.

New York City Draft Riots, Wikimedia Commons

The most visible opposition was seen through the draft riots. Wealthy people could pay to get out of the draft and other draftees blamed African Americans for the war. A five-day riot in New York City led to massive destruction of property and hundreds killed and wounded.

Opposition to the Union war effort was fueled by Copperheads who desired peace, Lincoln’s suspension of habeas corpus, and defiance of the draft.

Join me tomorrow as I explain Southern Opposition in the Civil War in the next APUSH in 1 Minute Daily!