Causes Of The American Civil War

history, news, politics, government · EN

In the wake of the American Civil Wars outbreak, John Lothrop Motley (1814 – 1877) emerged as a pivotal figure in shaping public opinion and foreign policy. An accomplished author and diplomat, Motley penned two influential letters to The Times in 1861 that passionately defended the Federal position. These letters were later reissued as a pamphlet titled Causes of the Civil War in America, which garnered the attention and approval of President Lincoln. His eloquent arguments played a significant role in securing his appointment as the United States minister to the Austrian Empire, where he adeptly worked alongside fellow diplomats like John Bigelow and Charles Francis Adams to thwart European support for the Confederacy. After resigning in 1867, he continued his distinguished service as Ambassador to the United Kingdom. - Summary by David Wales