What action did Abraham Lincoln take during his presidency?

During his presidency, Abraham Lincoln took significant action by issuing the Emancipation Proclamation, which declared that all slaves in the Confederate states were to be set free. This pivotal moment in American history, effective from January 1, 1863, aimed to weaken the Confederacy's ability to sustain its war efforts while also laying the groundwork for the eventual abolition of slavery throughout the United States. Lincoln's actions during the Civil War were critical in changing the moral and political landscape of the nation, emphasizing the importance of liberty and equality.

The decision to free the slaves not only had profound implications for those who were enslaved but also served as a catalyst for the passage of the Thirteenth Amendment, which formally abolished slavery in the United States. This move not only addressed a vital human rights issue but also transformed the Union's war aims to include the fight against slavery as a central objective.