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Lincoln and temperance pledge cited in Peoples Forum
A reader defends Lincoln against Prohibition critics, citing Major Merwin’s testimony about Lincoln favoring temperance and supporting a liquor abstinence pledge. The piece recounts Lincoln’s supposed remarks at the White House, his vow to abstain, and anecdotes from Coffin and Porter about temperance and a 1842 Springfield speech.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
the Observer
Lincoln
Nquor
Major Merwin
Merwin
White House
General Porter
Potomac
Grant
Porter