We reviewed a few key points about The Emancipation Proclamation and noted Lincoln's statement that the Civil War wasn't being fought to end slavery but to preserve the Union. He was successful keeping Britain out of the war and we discussed his plan for how to keep the border states in and Britain out following his victory at Antietam (discussed in class yesterday). We read that the Emancipation Proclamation also cleared the way for Black troops to serve in the Union army and read about the United States Colored Troops (USCT) and that they constituted ten percent of the Union army. We read about the 1863 draft riots which ensued because rich men were allowed to buy their way out of the draft that had to be instituted due to the need for soldiers. We will review the timeline and the Battle of Gettysburg in Monday's class. Ben was again reminded to bring in his homework. Ben was in good spirits today, sharing his Sun Chips with me and chatting about his upcoming birthday and the gifts he hopes to receive. It was an enjoyable way to end the week.