Random House Inc And There Was Light: Abraham Lincoln and the American Experiment

An excellent single volume biography of Lincoln focusing on his presidency. Jon Meacham tackles his subject with characteristic verve and the entertaining narrative skill that sets him apart from the pack of uninspiring historians.

interesting as always to read about this great person

Chegou ok

I am a big fan of both Meacham and Lincoln. I believe that “And There Was Light” is a truthful, unbiased nonfiction account of American history that deserves five stars. Abraham Lincoln guided our nation through its most perilous times. I read the hardback version and it worked well with my reading glasses. The story flowed smoothly from start to finish and was a very good read. I think this book should be part of every high school history/civics curriculum with a student evaluation prior to graduation. To be clear, Abraham Lincoln’s vision was the union without slavery. His was the just and honorable cause to align our values with those described in the Declaration of Independence – all men are created equal with the very basic human rights of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. This cause was patriotic and defined America. His goal was accomplished but only after the American Civil War claimed an estimated 750,000 combatants. In retrospect and very simply stated, the confederate cause was unjust, dishonorable, unpatriotic and morally offensive. The just cause prevailed and the union was restored. However, the confederates chose to replace slavery with white supremacy and segregation. White supremacy was, is and always will be domestic terrorism in political, social and economic terms and strategies. Even today, it also often delivers both overt/covert discrimination, harassment and physical violence. It is unamerican and not patriotic. As Meacham wraps up his book, Lincoln is described as having had the following leadership qualities: “absolute truth, stern resolution, clear insight, solemn faithfulness, courage that cannot be daunted and hopefulness that cannot be dashed.” I would only add that Abraham Lincoln was a unique, tireless, selfless servant to our nation, its laws and We the People. He gave the last full measure and we all (past, present and future citizens) should be eternally grateful for his sacrifice. To sound the clarion call in 2023, there is a sizeable minority amongst us and in our government bodies. This modern day white supremist, right wing conservative movement is neither patriotic nor American. It was clearly on display at our nation’s Capital on January 6th. It is the essence of pure evil. It is a clear and present danger and there is no Lincoln like American hero/leader to get our democratic republic experiment back on track to shine the light of hope and liberty across the world. Footnote: My family and I were finally notified to appear before the U.S. District Court of the Eastern District of North Carolina in Fayetteville, NC on 11/30/1966. This to be the final task to obtain our US citizenship. It had taken 2 years and some money to get to this point. The presiding judge was Samuel A. Howard. We appeared before him separately. His duty was to evaluate our ability to speak and comprehend English. His question to me: “Who was Abraham Lincoln?” My response was: “Abraham Lincoln was the President of the United States who freed the slaves.” His response: “No, that is not correct. Abraham Lincoln saved the union.” My response: “Why yes, he did but he also freed the slaves. Was I now disqualified for citizenship?” He replied: "No, you are not disqualified." Later that day, he administered the oath and we became US citizens. That is one pursuit that I have never regretted.

The subject matter is fantastic. The author Jon Meecham is awesome. Great Book!