What were the key foreign policy decisions made by Abraham Lincoln during his presidency?

During his presidency, Abraham Lincoln made several key foreign policy decisions that had significant impacts on the United States. Some of the most notable decisions include:

1. The Emancipation Proclamation: While primarily a domestic policy, the Emancipation Proclamation had important foreign policy implications. By declaring that all slaves in Confederate-held territories were to be freed, Lincoln aimed to undermine the Confederacy's ability to gain international support. This decision prevented European powers, such as Britain and France, from recognizing the Confederacy as a legitimate nation and potentially intervening in the American Civil War.

2. The Trent Affair: In 1861, a Union warship intercepted a British mail steamer, the Trent, and removed two Confederate diplomats who were traveling to Europe to seek support for the Confederacy. This incident strained relations between the United States and Britain, as it violated international law. However, Lincoln wisely defused the situation by releasing the diplomats and avoiding a potential war with Britain.

3. The Monroe Doctrine and French Intervention in Mexico: During Lincoln's presidency, France attempted to establish a puppet monarchy in Mexico, which violated the principles of the Monroe Doctrine. The doctrine stated that the United States would not tolerate European colonization or intervention in the Americas. Lincoln opposed French intervention and supported the Mexican resistance, indirectly aiding their efforts to expel the French forces.

4. The Alaska Purchase: In 1867, Lincoln's administration negotiated the purchase of Alaska from Russia for $7.2 million. While initially met with skepticism and ridicule, this decision proved to be a significant foreign policy success. The acquisition of Alaska expanded American territory and secured valuable natural resources, such as gold and oil, in the long run.

Overall, Abraham Lincoln's key foreign policy decisions aimed to preserve the Union, prevent foreign intervention in the Civil War, and protect American interests in the Western Hemisphere.