Winner of the Lincoln Prize Acclaimed historian Doris Kearns Goodwin illuminates Abraham Lincoln’s political genius in this highly original work, as the one-term congressman and prairie lawyer rises from obscurity to prevail over three gifted rivals of national reputation to become president. On May 18, 1860, William H. Seward, Salmon P. Chase, Edward Bates, and Abraham Lincoln waited in their … Lincoln waited in their hometowns for the results from the Republican National Convention in Chicago. When Lincoln emerged as the victor, his rivals were dismayed and angry.
Throughout the turbulent 1850s, each had energetically sought the presidency as the conflict over slavery was leading inexorably to secession and civil war. That Lincoln succeeded, Goodwin demonstrates, was the result of a character that had been forged by experiences that raised him above his more privileged and accomplished rivals. He won because he possessed an extraordinary ability to put himself in the place of other men, to experience what they were feeling, to understand their motives and desires.
It was this capacity that enabled Lincoln as president to bring his disgruntled opponents together, create the most unusual cabinet in history, and marshal their talents to the task of preserving the Union and winning the war.
We view the long, horrifying struggle from the vantage of the White House as Lincoln copes with incompetent generals, hostile congressmen, and his raucous cabinet. He overcomes these obstacles by winning the respect of his former competitors, and in the case of Seward, finds a loyal and crucial friend to see him through.
This brilliant multiple biography is centered on Lincoln’s mastery of men and how it shaped the most significant presidency in the nation’s history.
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Wonderfully informative
Greater understanding of an historical time and an historical figure, and it’s relevance to today.
No one tells our presidents stories like Doris Kearns Goodwin. Should be a must read for all Americans
Fascinating look at the way Lincoln governed. Highly recommended.
Interesting thesis that Lincoln was strong enough to surround himself with successful politicians who fought him for the Republican Party presidential nomination.
One of the best-written works of history I have ever read.
One of the best in nonfiction!!
Probably the best book on leadership I have ever read. You will understand Lincoln in ways you were never taught in history class.
Engaging, to say the least. This man arouses the curiosity of all. Therein lies his keen sense of empathy and gentleness. His acumen of situations gives way to his quirky way of telling a ‘down-home’ story that perfectly reflects the scenario that is at hand. Quite an fascinating and interesting read.
Shows the wisdom and humanity of our greatest President in the most trying times of our nation’s history. Lessons that if heeded would well serve our leaders of today and tomorrow
Simply said: a Pulitzer prize winner.
Having read many Civil War books and other books about President Lincoln I found this one too have a lot of things in it I hadn’t seen before. Well written and a lot about how the President thought about the problems of the republic and his methods to solve them. His main concern was keeping the country together.
Abraham Lincoln is my favorite President so I have read several books about him. This differed from the others because it showed how he was able to turn his political rivals into trusted members of his administration. Modern-day politicians could take a lesson from him, as he saw the positive qualities in members of other parties and used them …
This is an excellent history of Lincoln and his Cabinet.
Provides meaningful insight into this President.
I am not usually into historical non-fiction, but I loved this book. The author goes beyond just the facts and actions of history and makes you see the personalities of each of the characters. The book makes you feel as if you were living during that timeframe.
As always, she makes history truly a living story
Talks about what went on inside the Lincoln Administration. Very informative.
Amazing!
Most informative book on the Lincoln and the men he chose to help him govern.