In The Boyhood of Lincoln / A Tale of the Tunker Schoolmaster and the Times of Black Hawk

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

25672

Title

In The Boyhood of Lincoln / A Tale of the Tunker Schoolmaster and the Times of Black Hawk

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

In The Boyhood of Lincoln is a historical novel by Hezekiah Butterworth that tells the story of Abraham Lincoln's childhood and early life in Indiana. The book follows the adventures of Jasper, a Tunker schoolmaster who travels to preach and teach among the Indians, as he becomes embroiled in the lives of the Lincoln family. Along the way, Jasper encounters various historical figures, including Black Hawk and John Kinzie, and witnesses key events from American history.

Summary up to 500 words

The novel begins with Jasper's arrival in Indiana, where he meets a young boy named Thomas Lincoln. Jasper is drawn into the Lincoln family's life and becomes a close friend to Thomas and his mother, Nancy. As Jasper travels through the region, he encounters various historical figures, including Black Hawk and John Kinzie, who are struggling to maintain their way of life in the face of encroaching American settlement. Through Jasper's interactions with these characters, Butterworth explores themes of identity, community, and the complexities of American history. The novel is a charming and engaging tale that offers a unique perspective on Lincoln's early life and the people who shaped his character. Jasper is introduced as a Tunker schoolmaster, traveling to preach to every one and hold schools among the Indians. He meets Waubeno, an Indian boy, who becomes his companion and pupil. The two build a cabin near Fort Dearborn in Chicago, where they establish a school for Indian children. Jasper's interactions with Waubeno and other characters reveal the complexities of American history, including the struggles of Native Americans and the impact of European settlement on their way of life. Through Jasper's story, Butterworth highlights the importance of education, community, and empathy in shaping individual character and society as a whole. The novel is a historical fiction account that blends fact and fiction to create a compelling narrative. It offers a unique perspective on American history, highlighting the experiences of Native Americans and early European settlers. The author's use of fictional characters and events allows for creative liberties while still maintaining historical accuracy. The novel explores themes of identity, community, and the complexities of American history, making it a valuable resource for readers interested in historical fiction and American studies.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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data/epubs/pg25672.epub

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Categories

• Biography
• Fiction