Lincoln's 1864 Re-election Campaign Overview

Abraham Lincoln's re-election campaign in 1864 was marked by strategic political maneuvering and significant military developments. To enhance his chances of winning, Lincoln sought to unify the Republican Party and War Democrats by running under the banner of the newly formed National Union Party. This coalition aimed to present a united front during a time of national strife, as the Civil War continued to rage. Lincoln selected Andrew Johnson, a War Democrat, as his running mate, further solidifying this alliance. The campaign faced challenges, particularly due to military stalemates that had frustrated the public and diminished support for the administration. However, the tide began to turn with key Union victories, notably in Atlanta and the Shenandoah Valley, which shifted public sentiment in favor of Lincoln's leadership. These military successes were crucial in restoring confidence among voters, demonstrating the importance of military outcomes in shaping political fortunes during wartime.