Witness the turbulent backdrop of the 1864 re-election of President Abraham Lincoln, where accusations of voter fraud unravel a dramatic chapter in American history.
What really happened when absentee voting was introduced for Civil War soldiers? Our exploration promises a deep dive into the murky waters of:
Discover how the Republican Party, forged in the fires of Christian abolitionism, surged into prominence and navigate through Lincoln's first presidential victory amid missing ballots in ten Southern states. We reveal the untold stories behind the allegations, casting light on how these historical events shaped the race to pass the 13th Amendment.
Join us as we uncover the audacious voter fraud scheme led by Moses Ferry and other Democratic operatives, with Orville Wood stepping into the spotlight as a critical witness.
From fraudulent manipulation of military absentee ballots to the swift justice handed down by a military court, the New York Times' explosive coverage from the era comes alive. In a country guided by faith and values, we’ll revisit the Great Awakening's lasting impact and underscore the stories of unsung heroes like Orville Wood who championed the fight against slavery.
As we wrap up, we celebrate the enduring strength of America's core values, rooted in a belief that trusting in God remains the nation's often overlooked cornerstone.
The episode will reveal the hidden history of voter fraud during the 1864 election, showcasing how fraudulent ballots potentially altered the course of American democracy. It discusses the controversy around absentee voting for Union soldiers and details the investigations that unfolded as a result.
• Examination of the political context leading to the 1864 election
• Overview of the introduction of absentee voting for soldiers
• Discussion on the resistance from Democrats against military voting
• Orville Wood's key role in exposing fraudulent voting practices
• Insights from the military court proceedings and testimonies
• Consequences of voter fraud on the election outcome and Lincoln’s legacy
Please also visit "Mercer Moments in American History" at our YouTube Channel! We are dedicated to both current events, and major moments in American History that for some reason are now erased, deleted from our textbooks and classrooms.