Civil War

States' Rights to Fight States' Rights

Interesting observation about President Lincoln's proclamation of war on this day 150 years ago.

The Proclamation also brought about a change in domestic politics. By assigning the creation of the militias to the states, Lincoln had placed an enormous responsibility in the hands of each governor. They responded differently, revealing some weakness in the way the United States went to war. Some, like Rhode Island’s William Sprague, saw it as a chance to achieve personal glory — Sprague outfitted a regiment with his own ample funds, designed uniforms for his men and demanded that a command be offered to him (surprisingly, one was)).

I'm sure the president was aware of the irony of leaving the military up to the states in order to put down a rebellion over states' rights.

Incidentally, and appropriate to today's date, President Lincoln didn't impose the federal income tax until August 5, 1861.