The Papers and Writings of Abraham Lincoln, Complete

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

3253

Title

The Papers and Writings of Abraham Lincoln, Complete

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

This comprehensive collection presents the complete papers and writings of Abraham Lincoln, spanning his early political career through the Civil War. Featuring his famous debates with Stephen Douglas, inaugural addresses, and wartime messages, the volume also includes his renowned humor, anecdotes, and personal letters, offering a profound look at the man behind the presidency.

Summary up to 500 words

The Papers and Writings of Abraham Lincoln, Complete, compiled by Arthur Brooks Lapsley, offers an exhaustive compilation of the 16th President's public and private documents spanning from 1832 to 1862. This seven-volume collection meticulously traces Lincoln's intellectual and moral evolution, beginning with his early career as a skilled orator and lawyer in the Illinois legislature. The text documents his rise to national prominence, highlighting the pivotal 1858 Lincoln-Douglas debates where he forcefully articulated his opposition to the expansion of slavery. The narrative transitions into his presidency, capturing the gravity of his first inaugural address, his strategic responses to secession, and his management of the Civil War. Key documents include proclamations for militia, suspensions of the writ of habeas corpus, and messages to Congress regarding military policy. Interspersed with these serious matters are Lincoln's celebrated anecdotes and stories, revealing his wit and ability to find humor amidst tragedy. The volume concludes with his second inaugural address and reflections on the preservation of the Union. The collection is enriched by contributions from notable figures such as Theodore Roosevelt, Carl Schurz, and Joseph Choate, providing context and analysis. It includes Lincoln's legal arguments, political correspondence, and personal letters, offering a complete record of his life during one of history's most turbulent periods. The text also features Lincoln's famous anecdotes, such as his stories about General Fremont and his reflections on the nature of secession, illustrating his human side and his profound understanding of the nation's fragility and resilience.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• Biography
• History
• Politics