Meaning: The quote "Secretary of War Stanton used to get out of patience with Lincoln because he was all the time pardoning men who ought to be shot" by Elihu Root, a lawyer and statesman, sheds light on the complex relationship between President Abraham Lincoln and Secretary of War Edwin M. Stanton during the American Civil War. This quote captures the tension between Lincoln's compassionate approach to justice and Stanton's more rigid perspective on dealing with military offenders.

During the Civil War, the Union faced significant challenges in maintaining discipline and order within its military ranks. Desertion, insubordination, and other offenses were punishable by severe measures, including execution. Stanton, known for his strict adherence to military discipline, often clashed with Lincoln over the granting of pardons to soldiers who had been sentenced to death.

Abraham Lincoln, on the other hand, was known for his leniency and compassion, particularly when it came to matters of life and death. He believed in the power of redemption and second chances, often choosing to pardon or commute the sentences of soldiers who had been condemned to death for their actions during the war.

Elihu Root's quote reflects the frustration felt by Stanton, who believed that Lincoln's pardons undermined the discipline and morale of the Union army. From Stanton's perspective, pardoning soldiers who "ought to be shot" sent the wrong message and weakened the military's ability to enforce discipline and order. This tension between the two men's differing approaches to justice and discipline underscores the complexities of leadership and decision-making during a time of war.

The quote also highlights the ethical and moral dilemmas faced by leaders during times of conflict. Lincoln's willingness to extend mercy and forgiveness clashed with Stanton's unwavering commitment to upholding military law and order. This tension speaks to the broader debates about the balance between justice and mercy, the need for discipline in times of war, and the moral responsibilities of leaders in making life-and-death decisions.

In addition to the interpersonal dynamics between Lincoln and Stanton, the quote also offers insights into the broader historical context of the Civil War. It reflects the challenges faced by the Union leadership in maintaining discipline and cohesion within the military ranks, as well as the divergent perspectives on how to handle cases of insubordination and desertion.

Overall, Elihu Root's quote provides a window into the complexities of leadership, justice, and morality during a tumultuous period in American history. It serves as a reminder of the difficult decisions faced by leaders during times of war, and the enduring debates about the balance between justice, mercy, and discipline.