The state of Illinois has acquired an important document signed by Abraham Lincoln in 1861, which set in motion the Union’s military response to the start of the U.S. Civil War. The document, known as the “Proclamation of a Blockade,” called for the blockade of Southern ports to prevent the Confederacy from shipping vital cotton or importing critical goods. Governor J.B. Pritzker and his wife M.K. Pritzker purchased the document from an anonymous collector and donated it to the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum in Springfield. The purchase price was not disclosed, but the document was previously sold for $471,000 in July 2023.
The “Proclamation of a Blockade” was a key part of Gen. Winfield Scott’s strategy to hem in the Confederacy during the Civil War. By shutting off shipping at ports in several Southern states, the Union aimed to weaken the Confederacy’s ability to sustain itself economically and militarily. Despite facing criticism for not being aggressive enough, the plan, known as the “Anaconda Plan,” set the stage for Union forces to divide the Confederacy by moving down the Mississippi River. Virginia and North Carolina later joined the blockade order after seceding from the Union.
Christina Shutt, executive director of the presidential library and museum, emphasized the significance of Lincoln’s response to the start of the Civil War, stating that the document represents Lincoln’s commitment to preserving the unity of the nation. Lincoln had to tread carefully in his actions, as a declaration of war against his own people would have legitimized the Confederacy as a separate nation. Therefore, the blockade was seen as a necessary measure to suppress the rebellion and prevent the Confederacy from establishing diplomatic ties with other nations.
The purchase of the document by the Pritzkers underscores the importance of preserving and showcasing historical artifacts that reflect Illinois’ connection to Abraham Lincoln and the Civil War era. M.K. Pritzker described the document as a testament to Lincoln’s unwavering pursuit of justice, encouraging visitors to explore the museum and learn about Illinois’ history in relation to the nation’s broader historical context. The “Proclamation of a Blockade” will be on display in the museum’s Treasures Gallery, allowing visitors to view this significant piece of American history until February 2025.
The acquisition of this document adds to the rich collection of artifacts and papers related to Abraham Lincoln housed at the museum, providing a valuable resource for researchers, historians, and the general public. By showcasing this document, the museum aims to educate visitors about the complexities of the Civil War and Lincoln’s leadership during this turbulent period in American history. The Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum in Springfield serves as a reminder of the nation’s resilience and perseverance, even in the face of division and challenges, more than 150 years after the Civil War.
