Civil War-dated endorsement as president, signed "Abraham Lincoln, March 16, 1865," at the conclusion of a manuscript document, one page, 6.5 x 2, in full: "Let the within named prisoners be discharged on taking the oath of 8th December 1863." Attractively matted and framed with a sketch of Lincoln meeting with his advisors to an overall size of 21.75 x 20.25. In fine condition.
On December 8, 1863, President Lincoln issued the Proclamation of Amnesty and Reconstruction, by which he offered full pardons to any participant in the rebellion who laid down his arms and swore a loyalty oath, agreeing to 'faithfully support, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States, and the union of all the States there under.' By endorsing this directive—just thirty days before his assassination—Lincoln authorized the release of Confederate soldiers held as prisoners of war, at a time when peace negotiations to bring about the end of the war were beginning. A handsomely displayed, extremely desirable piece.
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