Political Life Case C

Lincoln and the Wide Awakes

In August 1860, Wide Awakes had a rally in Springfield, Illinois. They discovered Abraham Lincoln at the capitol building and carried him home. After placing him on his porch, they serenaded him with the song “Tural-li-a” that featured him in its lyrics. Lincoln, too, had a level of affection for them. But by February 1861, President elect Lincoln’s advisers felt their presence at the inauguration would cause disruption. Moderate Republicans feared division in America. Their caution meant little as anti-Republican newspapers and southerners declared Wide Awakes caused the Civil War. Though this statement was untrue, their frightening number, military like appearance, and enthusiasm created fear among anti-Lincoln citizens. After Lincoln is president, many Wide Awakes wanted the organization to continue, but it ended, and many joined the army at the beginning of the Civil War.

Campaign Ribbon

The Wide Awake club ribbon came in many different colors and formats based on the location and personality of members. It was part of their military uniform. These were especially worn with pride during campaign rallies as a symbol of regional membership.

Wide Awake Token

This Lincoln election token was designed by John D. Lovett. The Lovett family made most election coins that appeared in the 1860s. For Wide Awakes, tokens were a symbol of political and military status because some members were too young to vote.

Wide Awake Cartoon

This political cartoon from November 1860 reflected feelings of the times “Lincoln and Hamlin – God and the Right.” Many young, average Americans, joined the Wide Awakes believing John Bell, John Breckenridge, and Stephen Douglas had lost touch with folks working in factories, on farms, and in towns.

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