The Emancipation Proclamation
Only five days after the Battle of Antietam took place, President Abraham Lincoln made a significant move by proclaiming the freedom of all slaves in the agitated territories.
(Original Caption) President Abraham Lincoln with General George B. McClellan at his headquarters at Antietam, 1862. From left: General George W. Morell, Colonel Alexander S. Webb, General McClellan, scout Adams, Dr. Jonathan Letterman, an unidentified officer, President Lincoln, Colonel Henry Hunt, General Fitz, John Porter, unidentified officer.
Even though the methods of the army for tackling the incoming rebel territories were not as expected, the results were in their favor. Lincoln was quoted as saying, “…But they have been driven out of Maryland, and Pennsylvania is no longer in danger of invasion.”
The truth was the Proclamation papers stayed buried in the desk for a long time before the battle. However, the Union victory in the battle gave the President the confidence to release his orders to free the slaves.