Which side limited civil liberties more during the Civil War?

Prepare for the AICE US History Exam with multiple choice questions and flashcards, complete with hints and explanations. Ace your exam now!

During the Civil War, both the North and the South enacted measures that limited civil liberties, which is why the correct answer indicates that both sides were involved in this practice. In the North, President Abraham Lincoln took significant steps, such as suspending habeas corpus, which allowed for the detention of individuals without trial, primarily aimed at dissenters and those suspected of aiding the Confederacy. This move was justified by the need for national security during the conflict, but it drew criticism for infringing upon individual rights.

Meanwhile, in the South, the Confederate government also suspended civil liberties in the name of maintaining order. This included restrictions on free speech and press, especially against those who opposed the war effort. The Confederacy faced social upheaval and dissent, leading to actions that limited rights to suppress opposition.

Both regions prioritized wartime concerns over civil rights, demonstrating how the exigencies of war can lead to curtailments of personal freedoms. This situation is a crucial aspect of the Civil War era, reflecting the tensions between security and liberty during a time of national crisis.

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