This is Democracy
This is Democracy – Episode 293: Ending Wars
Mar 10, 2025
This week features Michael Vorenberg, an associate professor of history at Brown University and expert on the Civil War and Lincoln. He discusses the complexities of ending wars in democracies, including varied perspectives on when the Civil War ended. The conversation dives into Lincoln's vision for reconciliation and how his assassination altered those efforts. Vorenberg also draws parallels between historical conflicts and contemporary issues, emphasizing the importance of recognizing unresolved legacies in today's democratic landscape.
34:41
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Quick takeaways
- Ending wars in democracies is complex, as true peace requires addressing unresolved sentiments beyond military victories, exemplified by the Civil War's legacy.
- Lincoln's approach to post-war reconciliation emphasized the necessity of forgiveness and unity to navigate the challenges of healing societal divisions after conflict.
Deep dives
The Challenges of Ending Wars in Democracies
The discussion centers on the complexities of concluding wars within democracies, especially in the context of the American Civil War. Throughout history, wars often persist well beyond their supposed endings, leaving a lasting impact on societies. The notion that the end of a military conflict equates to a complete resolution of the underlying issues proves misleading, as unresolved sentiments and tensions can persist. For instance, despite the surrender at Appomattox in 1865, the Confederacy continued to exist in the minds of many, illustrating that true peace requires more than military victories.
