One of the greatest presidents ever. Fought for the concept that secession was unconstitutional (as it violated the concept of
democracy--if the guy you voted for lost, you have to deal with it) and aided in the disestablishment of the institution of
slavery. Though the Hartford Convention did consider secession, it was not the main focus of the agenda, and was political
suicide for the Federalists. Moreover, limiting free speech during times of war is not something
unique, as it has happened many times since Lincoln's day. It should also be noted, secession is mentioned nowhere in the Constitution as a right, it is mentioned in the Declaration of Independance, but that was not a legal document. Therefore he didn't deny anyone anything unusual.