Question

for decades, historians labeled lincoln a reluctant emancipator, interpreting his cautious public statements and measured timing as signs of tepid commitment to abolition. more recent scholars contend that what earlier critics mistook for hesitation was in fact ______: lincoln navigated constitutional constraints, kept wavering border states loyal, and prepared northern opinion for a policy he knew would prove divisive.
2 mark for review
which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase?
a ambivalence
b expediency
c thoughtfulness
d impartiality

Explanation:

To solve this, we analyze the context. The earlier view saw Lincoln as hesitant, but recent scholars say it was actually a strategic approach. Let's analyze each option:

• Option A (ambivalence): Means mixed feelings, but the text shows Lincoln was strategic, not conflicted. Eliminate.
• Option B (expediency): Refers to acting in a practical, strategic way to achieve goals. Lincoln navigated constraints, kept states loyal, etc.—this fits as a strategic (expedient) approach, not hesitation.
• Option C (thoughtfulness): Implies careful thinking, but the actions (navigating constraints, keeping states loyal) are more about practical strategy than just thought. Eliminate.
• Option D (impartiality): Means fairness, which is not related to the context of strategic actions. Eliminate.

Answer:

B. expediency