The Emancipation Proclamation aimed to achieve the Immediate abolition of slavery, Strengthen the Union war effort, and Avoid foreign intervention after Antietam.

Issued by President Lincoln on January 1, 1863, it sought the immediate abolition of slavery in the Confederate states, thereby weakening the Southern economy and war effort. By framing the war as a fight for freedom, Lincoln aimed to strengthen the Union war effort and rally support among abolitionists and freed slaves. Additionally, the proclamation was designed to deter foreign intervention by demonstrating the Union's commitment to ending slavery, thus making it less likely for countries like Britain and France to support the Confederacy.