Lincoln's Battle With His Cabinet

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of becoming the power behind the Presidential chair and openly
opposed Lincoln's control of the Union. This made Lincoln's position as
Chief of State exceedingly difficult and hindered his communication and
control of the military. As time passed, however, Seward recognized
Lincoln's capabilities and gave him complete loyalty (Simmons 174).
This could not be said of Salmon P. Chase, Lincoln's first
secretary of the treasury. Blinded by an inflated ego, Chase pursued his
own presidential aspirations. He was in constant conflict with Seward, and
in general opposition to Lincoln, particularly over the issue of slavery.
Chase has been described as "jealous of the President," and "overly
ambitious." Lincoln's personal secretary, John Nicolay, wrote, "There is
enough in Chase's letters abusing Lincoln behind his back for quite a
scorcher." He grew so furious with the President's capable rule that he
finally resigned his position (Williams 202).
Another weak ...

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