A what-if story about Lincoln's presidency

I am a new member and have just finished an initial draft of a short story that presents an alternate version of history. What if Abraham Lincoln soon after taking office decides not to go to war? This is a short work, and I am interested in your feedback.
 
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That was very well done! I have a question about the Spanish-American War though; why did both Confederate and US troops fight in the same conflict on the same side, joint occupation or just expansionist zeal?
 
Not bad. I'm confused though on something though. So does basically the south become a semi-autonomous region within the united states instead of a full fledged independant country? It seems that way since they are still discussing the payment for runaway slaves and enforcement of the fugative slave laws and have soldiers fighting beside each other in the Spanish American War.
 
That was very well done! I have a question about the Spanish-American War though; why did both Confederate and US troops fight in the same conflict on the same side, joint occupation or just expansionist zeal?
The Confederacy and US were allies during the 40 years and therefore, it was natural they would fight on the same side.
 
Not bad. I'm confused though on something though. So does basically the south become a semi-autonomous region within the united states instead of a full fledged independant country? It seems that way since they are still discussing the payment for runaway slaves and enforcement of the fugative slave laws and have soldiers fighting beside each other in the Spanish American War.
No, they are separate nations. The payment for the runaways was in effect, payment from one country to another. They were allies and would have been on the same side in the Spanish-American War.
 
I can accept it because it's the PoD, but I do not believe Lincoln would have surrendered Fort Sumter and his entire political position re secession without extremely dramatic changes to his personality. As is emphasized by what happens in your TL, there's really nothing to negotiate: either the South is independent or it isn't, and they aren't going to accept the latter.

Aside from the implausible PoD, I like the story.
 
I can accept it because it's the PoD, but I do not believe Lincoln would have surrendered Fort Sumter and his entire political position re secession without extremely dramatic changes to his personality. As is emphasized by what happens in your TL, there's really nothing to negotiate: either the South is independent or it isn't, and they aren't going to accept the latter.

Aside from the implausible PoD, I like the story.[/QUOTE

At the time, everyone, including Lincoln, thought this would be a short, quick war, and the South would back down and the Union would be saved. The war was not initially fought with the idea of 600,000 deaths and more than a million maimed. In my story, Lincoln relives what really happens in his sleep. Lincoln, being a strong, independent leader, has the courage to change course and live with the consequences.

With regard to Ft. Sumter, there was a split in his Cabinet -- General Scott recommended against defending the fort for tactical reasons.
 
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