1. Upon what authority does Lincoln issue this proclamation? 2. Why is emancipation proclaimed as a "fit and necessary war measure"?

3. Why does the proclamation only apply to slaves in certain states? Why is the geographical location significant?

4. What does Lincoln encourage these freed slaves to do and to refrain from doing?

5. Explain how each of these provisions was expected to contribute to the Union war effort.

6. How does language of this document contrast with that of Lincoln's more famous speech like the Gettysburg Address? Why might the bland, legalistic language of the Proclamation be more appropriate in this situation and its purpose?