Former President Donald Trump made controversial remarks about the Civil War during a campaign event in Iowa on Saturday. Trump suggested that the conflict could have been negotiated, while also criticizing his Republican rival Nikki Haley for failing to mention slavery as the cause of the war.

Speaking at a community college in Newton, Iowa, Trump described the Civil War as both fascinating and horrible. He stated, "So many mistakes were made...there was something that could've been negotiated, to be honest with you, I think you could have negotiated that." Trump further suggested that if President Abraham Lincoln had negotiated, he may not have become the iconic figure he is known as today.

Trump acknowledged the devastating death toll of the war, estimated at 620,000, and highlighted the grim reality faced by soldiers, noting the high risks of infection and gangrene. He described the Civil War as a "vicious, vicious war" and a difficult time for the nation.

Interestingly, a man dressed as President Lincoln was present at Trump's event in Iowa, adding to the historical context of the discussion.

The topic of the Civil War had gained attention in the Republican primary race following a controversial response by Nikki Haley. When asked about the cause of the war during a New Hampshire town hall, Haley initially mentioned the conflict arising from differences in how the government should operate and personal freedoms. However, she failed to mention slavery, which spurred immediate criticism from attendees and her fellow competitors.

Governor Ron DeSantis of Florida remarked that Haley seemed to have difficulties with American history, while Governor Chris Christie accused her of being dishonest with voters. Haley later attempted to clarify her position, emphasizing that she had black friends growing up during a CNN town hall in Iowa, further addressing the criticism she faced.

Trump has been particularly focused on Haley in his recent campaign events in Iowa, often highlighting the fact that she had previously stated she wouldn't run against him for president.

It is important to note that Trump did not provide specifics on how Lincoln could have negotiated with the Confederacy, the southern states that seceded from the United States over the issue of slavery, to potentially avoid the Civil War. However, during the same event, Trump also made a historical error when he mentioned that President Andrew Jackson, who died before the Civil War, could have prevented it had he been alive.

As the Republican primary race continues, the discussion around the causes and consequences of the Civil War remains a significant topic, highlighting the complexities of American history and the ongoing debates surrounding it.