Fiery Trial (WW Norton & Co)

In a landmark work of deep scholarship and insight, Eric Foner gives us a life of Lincoln as it intertwined with slavery, the defining issue of the time and the tragic hallmark of American history. As the nation expanded into new western territories and economic pursuits, the continuing strength of slavery spawned a new and divisive politics. Lincoln navigated this dynamic political landscape deftly, often on a path forged żeby abolitionists and radicals in his party. Lincoln's personal and political journey led him finally to embrace what he called the Civil War's "astounding" result - the immediate, uncompensated abolition of slavery - and recognition of blacks as American citizens. Foner's Lincoln is a leader whose greatness lay in his capacity for moral and political growth.