About this Book

Comprising an impressive array of more than 200 of Abraham Lincoln's writings and speeches, this volume offers a fascinating window onto one of history's most remarkable figures. Letting Lincoln's own eloquent voice tell the story, the author has organized the documentary material topically in ten chapters that follow Lincoln from his youth, to his entry into Republican politics, and through the main events of his presidency. Great public speeches like the Lincoln-Douglas Debates and the Gettysburg Address are here, together with many less familiar writing poignantly personal letters to voters and colleagues, notes on military strategy -- to show the character and evolution of Lincoln's thought on the crucial issues of free labor, slavery, secession, Civil War, and emancipation. Johnson provides ample historical context through the skillful weaving of narrative and documents and the judicious use of footnotes.