Lincoln's Battle With His Cabinet

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the power behind the 2 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 link in
Lincoln's cabinet was his first ...

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