Abraham Lincoln's father, Thomas Lincoln, harbored a strong aversion to slavery, a conviction deeply embedded in his personal principles and his community's values.
Foundations of His Antislavery Stance
Thomas Lincoln's opposition to slavery was multifaceted, grounded in significant principles that shaped his worldview:
- Religious Convictions: Both Thomas and his wife, Nancy Lincoln, were active members of the Little Mount Baptist Church. This particular congregation was established on fervent antislavery principles and was part of a wider network of churches across Kentucky that advocated against the institution of slavery. Their faith provided a moral compass, guiding their strong opposition to the practice of owning human beings.
- Economic Principles: Beyond his religious beliefs, Thomas Lincoln's aversion to slavery also encompassed economic considerations. While the precise details of these economic objections are not specified, his stance suggests a belief that slavery was fundamentally flawed from an economic perspective, potentially hindering equitable labor or fair economic practices.
Community Influence and Reinforcement
The Lincoln family's membership in the Little Mount Baptist Church played a crucial role in reinforcing Thomas's antislavery views. Being part of a faith community explicitly founded on and connected through antislavery principles provided a supportive moral and social environment. This communal aspect likely strengthened and solidified Thomas Lincoln's inherent opposition to slavery, making it a cornerstone of his beliefs and actions.
