Abe Lincoln’s Secret War Against The North

Sound Bite

Abraham Lincoln is an American icon. As "Honest Abe"— and the "Great Emancipator," — today he is viewed as a demigod whose grand virtues far outweigh his minuscule human failings.

Yet he wasn't always viewed this way. During his presidency, he was feared and hated, not only by Southerners but also by his political rivals, the Democrats, and to a surprising degree by the rank-and-file of his own Republican Party. They recognized that he had become a brutal dictator and was turning the USA into a permanently militarized nation. In these pages John Chodes exposes a shocking and criminal campaign against the people of New York, Maryland, Indiana and Missouri during the Civil War, events most of us have never heard of.

About the Book

Many aspects of the Civil War have been swept under the rug, but through this investigation of three Northern states that opposed Abraham Lincoln's policies, and one state that fervently supported him, the true reality will be kept alive.

Why is this story important for today? Because many of the negatives in 21st-century American society, the centralization of power in Washington, political indifference to the popular will, the continual expansion of the "military-industrial complex" can all be traced to their starting point: Abraham Lincoln's presidency. We shall see that the Radical wing of Lincoln's Republican Party was a precursor of the 20th- and 21st-century totalitarian regimes.

These Radicals believed in, and fulfilled their goal of, one-party rule. This goal was not shaped by four years of brutalizing war but was inherent in their ideology from the beginning.

Introduction

Abe Lincoln's Secret War Against the North by John Chodes reveals an often-overlooked aspect of American history, challenging traditional narratives surrounding Abraham Lincoln and the Civil War. Through meticulous research and engaging storytelling, Chodes documents the contentious relationship between Lincoln's administration and several Northern states that resisted his policies, revealing a hidden side of this pivotal era in U.S. history.

The Hidden Struggles of Northern States: While the Civil War is typically viewed as a conflict between the North and South, this book sheds light on internal divisions within the Union. Chodes examines three Northern states that opposed Lincoln's centralized policies and contrasts them with one state that supported him fervently. These states' struggles reveal a complex political landscape, where dissent and resistance played a crucial role in shaping the war's outcomes.

The Roots of Modern Political Challenges: Chodes connects Lincoln’s presidency to contemporary issues in American society, arguing that many modern problems, such as the centralization of power in Washington, political indifference to public opinion, and the expansion of the military-industrial complex, can be traced back to Lincoln’s leadership. This analysis provides readers with a deeper understanding of how historical decisions continue to impact modern governance and societal structures.

Radical Republicans and One-Party Rule: The book explores the ideology of the Radical Republicans, a faction of Lincoln’s party that sought to establish one-party dominance. Chodes argues that their approach foreshadowed the authoritarian regimes of the 20th and 21st centuries. By examining the policies and strategies of these Radicals, the author reveals their long-lasting influence on American political dynamics.

A New Perspective on Lincoln’s Legacy: While Lincoln is often celebrated as a unifying figure, Chodes presents a nuanced portrait that highlights the controversial aspects of his presidency. This thought-provoking account challenges readers to reconsider the complexities of his leadership, particularly in relation to the balance of power, states' rights, and individual liberties.

Relevance for Today: Chodes emphasizes the importance of revisiting these historical events to understand their implications for contemporary society. By examining the roots of centralized power and political indifference, the book offers insights into current debates about governance, democracy, and civil rights.

Abe Lincoln's Secret War Against the North is an eye-opener for history enthusiasts, scholars, and anyone looking for the background story of the Civil War. This book not only uncovers hidden truths about Lincoln’s presidency and suggests how policies he promoted continue to impact America’s political and social fabric.