Our Lincoln (WW Norton & Co)

In 1876, the abolitionist Frederick Douglass observed, 'No man can say anything that is new of Abraham Lincoln'. Undeterred, the contributors to "Our Lincoln" believe it is possible even now, especially if the starting point is the interaction between the life and the times. Several of these original essays focus on Lincoln's leadership as president and commander in chief. James M. McPherson examines Lincoln's deft navigation of the crosscurrents of politics and wartime strategy. Sean Wilentz assesses Lincoln's evolving position in the context of party politics. James Oakes considers Lincoln's views on race and citizenship. There are also brilliant essays on Lincoln's literary style, religious beliefs and family life. The Lincoln who emerges is a man of his time, yet able to transcend and transform it - a reasonable measure of greatness.