December 31, 1862
President Lincoln approves the act of Congress admitting West Virginia into the Union.
January 1, 1863
President Lincoln issues the Emancipation Proclamation.
January 2, 1863
President Lincoln and Mrs. Lincoln hold a White House reception for Cabinet members and the diplomatic corps.
Today in Lincoln's Life
Lincoln's Words
"I appeal to you again to constantly bear in mind that with you, and not
with politicians, not with Presidents, not with office-seekers, but with you,
is the question, "Shall the Union and shall the liberties of this country be
preserved to the latest generation?"
--Speech to Gov. Morton in Indianapolis, February 11, 1861