Abraham Lincoln

Abraham Lincoln was the 16^th President of the United States and remains one of the most important figures in American history. Known in particular for leading the Union to victory in the American Civil War and ending slavery through the Emancipation Proclamation, this iconic leader oversaw a period of profound social change, economic modernization and territorial expansion, and paved the way for the restoration of national unity following the Civil War. In just 50 minutes, you will find out how his actions shaped events in his country for decades to come and understand his profound influence on the American social and political landscape of the 19^th and 20^th centuries.

This straightforward and informative book provides a thorough discussion of the key moments in Lincoln’s illustrious political career, including his inspirational Gettysburg Address, the Homestead Act and the colonization of the West, and the abolition of slavery. It also features a full biography, a valuable introduction to the political, social and economic context and an evaluation of the impact of his presidency, giving you all the essential information about this towering figure of US history.

About Abraham Lincoln

When he became president in 1861, Abraham Lincoln became the leader of a country that was deeply divided over the question of slavery, which had dogged the young nation since its inception. His inspirational leadership steered the country through a bloody civil war and decisively shaped the course of US history. His murder by the Confederate sympathizer and opponent of abolition John Wilkes Booth in 1865 made him the first American president to be assassinated. He is now widely considered to be one of the greatest ever US presidents.

This clear and accessible 46-page book is structured as follows:

• Introduction to Abraham Lincoln
• Biography of Abraham Lincoln
  • Youth
  • Lincoln’s debut on the political scene
  • The election which triggered a civil war
  • A new era
• Political, social and economic context
  • The changing face of politics
  • A deeply divided economy
  • Slavery: the issue which sparked secession
• Highlights
  • Presidential campaign and election
  • The Civil War
  • The Emancipation Proclamation and the 13^th Amendment
  • Creating greenbacks
  • The Homestead Act and the colonization of the West
• Impact of Lincoln’s presidency
  • The North-South economic divide
  • The end of slavery
  • European and Asian immigration
  • Political repercussions
• Summary