Original broadside published in 1864 by the National Union Executive Committee, Astor House, New York, one page, 9.5 x 11.5, headed: "The Two Roads to Peace! How shall we End the Rebellion—Shall we Coax it, or Crush it?" The broadside presents the "Chicago Platform" of George B. McClellan and the "Baltimore Platform" of Abraham Lincoln, and concludes with a pitch in favor of Lincoln's policy.
In part: "Americans! Here you have the two plans for ending the Rebellion, restoring peace, and preserving the Union. They differ in every essential feature…The Chicago platform says not one word in condemnation of the Rebellion or those who have wrapped the nation in the flames of war. The Baltimore platform brands the Rebellion as a gigantic crime, and demands the punishment of the rebels who have brought it on…The Chicago Platform proposes that the Rebellion be stopped by immediate efforts for a cessation of hostilities on the part of the Government. The Baltimore Platform proposes to 'quell it by force of arms.' The first is Surrender—the last Victory! Which do you prefer?…The Chicago platform has not a word to say against slavery, which has caused the war, and which is to be the corner-stone of the new Confederacy the rebellion seeks to establish. The Baltimore Platform brands it as a curse to the country, and calls for its complete extirpation from the soil of the Republic, at the hands of the people, through an amendment to the Constitution. Which is wisest and best for the country?
Fellow-Citizens! These are plain and practical issues…This is not a party contest. Political distinctions have nothing to do with it. It is a contest for the life of the Nation! If we surrender to the rebellion, the Union is gone forever. If we fight the rebels a little longer, it is safe forever. If we give them to understand, in November next, that the only Road to Peace lies through the Victory of the National arms, the contest is over! The election of Lincoln and Johnson is the death-knell of the rebellion!!" In fine condition, with light toning to intersecting folds, and a closely trimmed top edge.
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