Book description
In the more than 140 years since his death, Abraham Lincoln has
become America's most revered president. The mythmaking about this
self-made man began early, some of it starting during his campaign for
the presidency in 1860. As an American icon, Lincoln has been the
subject of speculation and inquiry as authors and researchers have
examined every aspect -- personal and professional -- of the
president's life. In Lincoln Legends, noted historian and Lincoln
expert Edward Steers Jr. carefully scrutinizes some of the most
notorious tall tales and distorted ideas about America's sixteenth
president. These inaccuracies and speculations about Lincoln's
personal and professional life abound. Did he write his greatest
speech on the back of an envelope on the way to Gettysburg? Did
Lincoln appear before a congressional committee to defend his wife
against charges of treason? Was he an illegitimate child? Did Lincoln
have romantic encounters with women other than his wife? Did he have
love affairs with men? What really happened in the weeks leading up to
April 14, 1865, and in the aftermath of Lincoln's tragic
assassination? Lincoln Legends evaluates the evidence on all sides of
the many heated debates about the Great Emancipator. Not only does
Steers weigh the merits of all relevant arguments and interpretations,
but he also traces the often fascinating evolution of flawed theories
about Lincoln and uncovers the motivations of the individuals --
occasionally sincere but more often cynical, self-serving, and
nefarious -- who are responsible for their dispersal. Based on
extensive primary research, the conclusions in Lincoln Legends will
settle many of the enduring questions and persistent myths about
Lincoln's life once and for all. Steers leaves us with a clearer image
of Abraham Lincoln as a man, as an exceptionally effective president,
and as a deserving recipient of the nation's admiration.
""Noted Lincoln scholar Steers succinctly and eloquently
debunks 14 popular myths about the Great Emancipator's life and
death."--Publishers Weekly" --
