What does the term arabesque refer?

The arabesque is a form of artistic decoration consisting of "surface decorations based on rhythmic linear patterns of scrolling and interlacing foliage, tendrils" or plain lines, often combined with other elements. It usually consists of a single design which can be 'tiled' or seamlessly repeated as many times as desired. Within the very wide range of Eurasian decorative art that includes motifs matching this basic definition the term "arabesque" is used consistently as a technical term by art historians to describe only elements of the decoration found in two phases: Islamic art from about the 9th century onwards, and European decorative art from the Renaissance onwards. Arabesques are a fundamental element of Islamic art but they develop what was already a long tradition by the coming of Islam. The past and current usage of the term in respect of European art can only be described as confused and inconsistent. Some Western arabesques derive from Islamic art, but others are closely based on Ancient Roman decorations.

the emancipation proclamation was the aim of the war change to include the freeing of slaves in addition to preserving the union. the 13th amendment, which abolished slavery in the u.s. was passed on december 6th 1865.

as promised, lincoln waited to unveil the proclamation until he could do so with success from the union military advance. on september 22nd 1862, after a victory at antietam, he publicly announced a preliminary emancipation proclamation, declaring all slaves free in the rebellious states as of january 1st 1863.