Abraham Lincoln was known as the Great Emancipator because of his actions both during and after the Civil War. Lincoln was opposed to slavery and wanted it abolished. However, many historians contend that, because he did not action his opposition to slavery, he does not deserve the title of the Great Emancipator. He was afraid of losing political support from the Southern States. He is main focus was on keeping the Union together. On the other hand, most of the historians believe that the title of the Great Emancipator is an apt title.