Lincoln's Century
What is a website about Abraham Lincoln that doesn't address the Civil War? |
The 19th century revolved around the path to and impact of the Civil War on the United States. It is only fitting that Abraham Lincoln, the archetect and symbol of the Union victory in the war, be studied in tandem with these events. In doing so, students can not only gain a broader understanding of Abraham Lincoln himself, but also use one person as a familiar touchpoint as they progress through the first 65 years of nineteenth-century history.
Although we tend to look back at Lincoln as extraordinary, he was, in fact, somewhat ordinary by early 19th century standards. He was born on a farm in a time when 95% of Americans had rural origins. He was self educated during an era when formal education was available to the wealthy. He dabbled in politics during an era of such intense political participation it is deemed the "Era of the Common Man". Lastly, he became a respected and successful lawyer during a time in which the professional class was growing and accomidating more social risers than ever before. The goal of this site is to allow students to come to know Lincoln in different contexts than the Civil War. Lincoln's writings thus become not only a gateway to the common man in the antebellum period, but also lay a framework for a characterization of his actions, behaviors, and decisions during the Civil War. |