Abraham Lincoln the Writer: A Treasury of His Greatest Speeches and Letters

Abraham Lincoln was not only one of America's greatest presidents, but one of America's most gifted writers. In the years before radio and television could bring our leaders into our living rooms, Lincoln communicated to citizens through powerful letters and brilliant speeches. He even wrote poetry! Noted Lincoln scholar and lecturer Harold Holzer gathers Abraham Lincoln's greatest writings--from his early rhymes composed when he was about sixteen to his speech to Indiana soldiers delivered less than a month before his death--and illustrates them with poignant archival black-and-white photographs and prints. Holzer divides the book into two parts--The Illinois Years: 1825-1860 and The White House Years: 1861-1865--and provides detailed backgrounds to these important stages of Lincoln's life. Each writing is also accompanied by an introduction that offers historical background. And the timeline of key events in Lincoln's life helps put this extraordinary figure in perspective. Holzer proves that there is no better way to get to know Lincoln than through the magic of his words.

Abraham Lincoln the Writer: A Treasury of His Greatest Speeches and Letters Abraham Lincoln was not only one of America's greatest presidents, but one of America's most gifted writers. In the years before radio and television could bring our leaders into our living rooms, Lincoln communicated to citizens through powerful letters and brilliant speeches. He even wrote poetry! Noted Lincoln scholar and lecturer Harold Holzer gathers Abraham Lincoln's greatest writings--from his early rhymes composed when he was about sixteen to his speech to Indiana soldiers delivered less than a month before his death--and illustrates them with poignant archival black-and-white photographs and prints. Holzer divides the book into two parts--The Illinois Years: 1825-1860 and The White House Years: 1861-1865--and provides detailed backgrounds to these important stages of Lincoln's life. Each writing is also accompanied by an introduction that offers historical background. And the timeline of key events in Lincoln's life helps put this extraordinary figure in perspective. Holzer proves that there is no better way to get to know Lincoln than through the magic of his words.

School Library Journal

Gr 7 Up-Holzer presents a sampling of writings that offer a unique look at the 16th president's life and the power of his words. The introduction, "Lincoln in His Own Write," reviews the man's development as a writer. The first section traces his career as lawyer, congressman, Senate candidate, until his acceptance of the Republican presidential nomination. It includes early poems; letters to his wife and brother; notes on the law, the role of government, and democracy; and excerpts from speeches on the Dred Scott Decision and a "House Divided," as well as from the Lincoln-Douglas Debates. "The White House Years, 1861-1865" illuminates the president through his inaugural addresses, letters to generals, the Emancipation Proclamation, the Gettysburg Address, and letters to his sons. Each sample of writing is preceded by an informative introduction. An excellent selection of archival black-and-white photographs and reproductions enriches the text. This valuable compilation offers insight into the man and the leader, revealing his words and deeds, his humor and dedication.-Patricia Ann Owens, Wabash Valley College, Mt. Carmel, IL Copyright 2000 Cahners Business Information.|

Harold Holzer, Senior Vice President for External Affairs at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, served as chairman of the Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial Foundation. He is the author, co-author, or editor of 35 books on Lincoln and the Civil War era. He has won many research and writing awards, most recently the National Humanities Medal in 2008. Holzer is a former journalist, and political and government press secretary.