The Republican platform, upon which Lincoln was elected included SPECIFICALLY, not to EXTEND slavery.  The firing on Ft, Sumpter caused Lincoln's military response.  It would have been interesting to see if Sumpter had NOT been fired on how Lincoln would have forced a military solution.  Washington DC and several state remaining IN the union still, legally had slavery. In fact, in 1862, the IRS began taxing slave sales IN those states to help fund the war. (DC had slavery, but no sales).  Upwards of 90000 free blacks fought for the Confederacy, starting in 1861, mostly militias.  Blacks were only allowed to serve in Union forces starting in late 1863, mostly to free white troops to fill fighting units. (Due to horrendous losses), This was also when the draft started, causing massive riots in NYC.   Time after time, speech after speech, Lincoln said the war was to "preserve the union." the EP didn't free the slaves in those northern states.  John needs to read some more history!