Abraham Lincoln   By: John Drinkwater (1882-1937)

Abraham Lincoln by John Drinkwater is an expertly written and thoroughly researched biography that delves into the life and legacy of one of America's greatest presidents. With meticulous attention to detail, Drinkwater uncovers the lesser-known aspects of Lincoln's life, shedding light on his upbringing, his political career, and his contributions to the abolition of slavery.

The book presents a vivid and comprehensive portrayal of Lincoln's early struggles and his rise to power, illuminating the challenges he faced as he navigated through a divided nation on the brink of civil war. Drinkwater skillfully brings to life the essence of Lincoln's character, capturing his resilience, determination, and unwavering commitment to justice.

What sets this biography apart is Drinkwater's ability to effectively blend historical facts with emotional depth. He paints a poignant picture of Lincoln's personal life, revealing his turbulent relationship with his wife, Mary Todd Lincoln, and the devastating loss of two of their children. Through these personal anecdotes, Drinkwater humanizes Lincoln and provides readers with a profound understanding of the toll that leading a nation at war took on his psyche.

Additionally, Drinkwater's writing style is both engaging and accessible. Despite the wealth of historical information presented, the narrative flows effortlessly, making it an enjoyable read for both history enthusiasts and casual readers. The author's evident passion for his subject matter is evident on every page, making the book all the more engaging.

One of the most admirable aspects of this biography is Drinkwater's balanced approach to Lincoln's presidency. He paints an honest portrait of the man, acknowledging his successes and failures alike. By presenting a well-rounded view of Lincoln, Drinkwater ensures that readers gain a comprehensive understanding of the complexities surrounding this iconic figure.

Overall, Abraham Lincoln by John Drinkwater is a remarkable biography that offers deeper insights into the life and presidency of one of America's most revered leaders. Drinkwater's meticulous research and engaging writing style bring Lincoln and his era to life, captivating readers from beginning to end. Whether you are a history buff or simply curious about this influential figure, this biography is a must-read.

First Page:

First, my purpose is that not of the historian but of the dramatist. The historical presentation of my hero has been faithfully made in many volumes; notably, in England, by Lord Charnwood in a monograph that gives a masterly analysis of Lincoln's career and character and is, it seems to me, a model of what the historian's work should be. To this book I am gratefully indebted for the material of my play. But while I have, I hope, done nothing to traverse history, I have freely telescoped its events, and imposed invention upon its movement, in such ways as I needed to shape the dramatic significance of my subject. I should add that the fictitious Burnet Hook is admitted to the historical company of Lincoln's Cabinet for the purpose of embodying certain forces that were antagonistic to the President. This was a dramatic necessity, and I chose rather to invent a character for the purpose than to invest any single known personage with sinister qualities about which there might be dispute... Continue reading book >>