The Two American Presidents: A Dual Biography of Abraham Lincoln and Jefferson Davis

by Bruce Chadwick

The first dual biography of two great leaders furnishes a comprehensive, heavily researched study that compares the two men and reaches firm conclusions about the Civil War that transformed the United States.

Hardcover

First published January 1, 1999

Reviews

[Gary T · Rating 4 out of 5]

The author succeeds in his juxtaposition of Lincoln and Davis. Lincoln’s qualities highlight Davis’s faults. I had read one biography of Davis but this approach made the sections on Davis very engaging, while I skimmed the parts on Lincoln (having read many of his biographies). In the life isn’t fair category, Davis lives past 80. One thing that stood out is the author’s interpretation that Lincoln masterminded the Dahlgren raid, which probably isn’t true. But it was fun to read it that way. I’m glad I read this book. Well-written, 4 stars.

[ltcomdata · Rating 2 out of 5]

A very straightforward biographical comparison/contrast of Abraham Lincoln and Jefferson Davis.

Some things I learned (and which I did not know before):
-Mr. Lincoln was a politician to the core, whereas Mr. Davis was not.
-Mr. Lincoln took advantage of the presidency for political gain.
-Mr. Lincoln despotically eliminated freedom of the press during the War.
-Mr. Davis never censured the press, despite their constant criticisms of him. He truly believed in freedom of the press.
-Varina Davis truly loved her husband.

The book is informative, but quite dull.

[Matt · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gives a great comparison between the Presidents. I really didnt know much about Davis before this book. They really focus on his personal traits and how business was done in the Confederate White House. I give it 4 stars because the book is laid out very well to compare the presidents during similar time spans of there life. It also is a quick and easy read and doesnt bog down in minute details. Its obviously a general overview book but it is well written and well organized and I would highly recommend the book.