Is there a quote by Abraham Lincoln that states his true reason for the Civil War?

Question

Since it seems the majority of his "freeing the slaves" was a ploy to enlist abolitionists on his side. (Ex: freeing slaves in enemy states -- Emancipation Proclamation.)

Answer 1

I doubt that such a complex issue is summarized in any one sentence;  but if there is such a sentence it is likely to be part of the Gettysburg Address.

Answer 2

The war began shortly after attempts to resupply Fort Sumter in South Carolina by the Federal Government were thwarted by the Seceding South Carolina Militia.  Although there are many issues surrounding the cause of the war including racial, economic and human rights issues, if you look at his Declaration of War, it is about reuniting the states that have seceded and restoring the nation.  (There is a link to a newspaper printing of the Declaration in April, 1861 at the bottom of answer.)  The Emancipation does not occur until 1863 - almost two years later.  An interesting thing that most people don't realize is that the Emancipation Proclamation only frees slaves in rebelling (Confederate) territories.  Those Slaves in the Union Territories were still unaffected by the Emancipation Proclamation.  Slavery and Racial equality isn't fully addressed as a national issue until the  13th, 14th and 15th amendments  AFTER the War - but arguably, many racial equality issues still persist today.

Answer 3

"A house divided against itself cannot stand."