Exploring Lincoln's Private Notes: Insights Into the Best President

“An interesting tour contained in the thoughts—and the center—of Abraham Lincoln . . . An vital and timeless work.”—Jon Meacham, Pulitzer Prize–profitable writer of  His Fact Is Marching On
 
From the  New York Instances  bestselling writer of  A. Lincoln  and  American Ulysses,  a revelatory glimpse into the mental journey of our sixteenth president by way of his non-public notes to himself, explored collectively right here for the primary time

A deeply non-public man, shut off even to those that labored intently with him, Abraham Lincoln typically captured “his finest ideas,” as he referred to as them, briefly notes to himself. He would work out his private stances on the most important problems with the day, by no means anticipating anybody to see these frank, unpolished items of writing, which he’d then preserve shut at hand, in desk drawers and even in his high hat. The profound significance of those notes has been missed, as a result of the originals are scattered throughout a number of completely different archives and have by no means earlier than been introduced collectively and examined as a coherent entire.

Embark on a fascinating journey with renowned Lincoln historian Ronald C. White as he delves into twelve of Lincoln's most significant personal notes. These notes not only showcase the brilliance and empathy of our esteemed president but also reveal his very human anxieties and ambitions. Gain insight into Lincoln's inner thoughts as he tackles the issue of slavery, crafts compelling arguments against its proponents, and prepares for his iconic debates with Stephen Douglas. Explore Lincoln's private musings following a failed Senate bid, his concerns about the Republican Party's future, and his poignant reflections on national unity during the tumultuous secession crisis. Despite being perceived as non-religious by many, Lincoln's sophisticated theological contemplations during the Civil War shed light on his deeper convictions. Additionally, for the first time in history, all 111 Lincoln notes are transcribed in the appendix as a valuable resource for scholars and Lincoln enthusiasts alike.

The notes of Lincoln, intended for his eyes only, have been expertly analyzed by a dedicated author who has delved deep into Lincoln's life and words throughout his career. The result is a rare and insightful peek into the mind and heart of one of our nation's most esteemed presidents.