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The Enigmatic Demise of Doves in the Wake of Albert Lincoln's Presidency

Derek Bell

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Published in A High Mortality Of Doves (Albert Lincoln 1)

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The presidency of Albert Lincoln, marked by the Civil War and its profound impact on American history, is also shrouded in an enigmatic phenomenon that has baffled historians and ornithologists alike. During the years following Lincoln's assassination in 1865, dove populations across the country experienced a precipitous decline, leaving behind a mystery that has lingered for generations.

A High Mortality of Doves (Albert Lincoln 1)

A High Mortality of Doves (Albert Lincoln Book 1)

by Kate Ellis

4.1 out of 5

Language	:	English
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Print length	:	260 pages

Historical Accounts and Eyewitness Testimonies

Contemporary accounts from newspapers and journals of the time paint a vivid picture of the dwindling dove population. In 1867, the New York Times reported: "The doves have almost entirely disappeared from this city. A few years ago, they were so numerous that they were a nuisance, but now it is a rare thing to see one." Similar reports emerged from Boston, Philadelphia, and other major urban centers.

Eyewitness accounts corroborate the decline. One such account comes from John Audubon, the renowned ornithologist and naturalist, who wrote in his journal in 1868: "The doves that were once so plentiful in our forests and fields have become remarkably scarce. This is a matter of great concern to me, for I have always found them to be a gentle and beneficial creature."

Possible Causes and Theories

The exact cause of the dove population decline remains unknown, but several theories have been proposed:

Habitat destruction: The rapid expansion of cities and industrialization during the post-Civil War era led to widespread deforestation and habitat loss, potentially affecting dove populations.
Disease: An outbreak of a contagious disease, such as avian influenza or poxvirus, could have decimated dove populations.
Overhunting: Doves were a popular target for hunters in the 19th century. Increased hunting pressure may have contributed to the decline.
Pollution: The rise of industrial pollution in the post-war period may have had harmful effects on dove populations and their food sources.
Climate change: Although less likely, changes in climate or weather patterns could have impacted dove migration and breeding habits.

Lincoln's Connection and the Legend

Curiously, the decline in dove populations coincided with the assassination of Albert Lincoln in April 1865. This temporal correlation has led to speculation that Lincoln's death had a mystical or even prophetic connection to the doves.

One popular legend claims that Lincoln had a particular affinity for doves and that they would often gather around the White House during his presidency. It was said that Lincoln believed doves were a symbol of peace and unity, and their departure after his death was a sign of mourning or divine retribution.

Unanswered Questions and Lingering Mysteries

Despite the passage of time and the efforts of researchers, many questions surrounding the dove population decline remain unanswered. The true cause or combination of causes is still unknown. Furthermore, the enigmatic connection between Lincoln's death and the doves continues to intrigue and fuel speculation.

The decline in dove populations after Lincoln's presidency remains a captivating historical mystery that has captured the imagination of historians, ornithologists, and the general public alike. While the exact reasons may forever remain elusive, the story serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of life and the delicate balance of nature.

A High Mortality of Doves (Albert Lincoln Book 1)

by Kate Ellis

4.1 out of 5