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Abraham Lincoln: The Man Behind the Myths
“There is no better introduction to current thinking about Lincoln and his place in history.” —Newsday
An essential book for any student of Lincoln and American history, Abraham Lincoln: The Man Behind the Myths is acclaimed Lincoln biographer Stephen B. Oates's unique exploration of America's sixteenth president in reality and memory.
In this multifaceted portrait, Oates, "the most popular historical interpreter of Lincoln" (Gabor S. Boritt, New York Times Book Review), exposes the human side of the great and tragic president—including his depression, his difficulties with love, and his troubled and troubling attitudes about slavery—while also confronting the many legends that have arisen around "Honest Abe." Oates throughout raises timely questions about what the Lincoln mythos reveals about the American people.
An essential book for any student of Lincoln and American history, Abraham Lincoln: The Man Behind the Myths is acclaimed Lincoln biographer Stephen B. Oates's unique exploration of America's sixteenth president in reality and memory.
In this multifaceted portrait, Oates, "the most popular historical interpreter of Lincoln" (Gabor S. Boritt, New York Times Book Review), exposes the human side of the great and tragic president—including his depression, his difficulties with love, and his troubled and troubling attitudes about slavery—while also confronting the many legends that have arisen around "Honest Abe." Oates throughout raises timely questions about what the Lincoln mythos reveals about the American people.
240 pages, Paperback
First published April 1, 1984
43 people are currently reading
322 people want to read
About the author
Stephen B. Oates
42 books64 followersAn expert on 18th century U.S. history, Stephen B. Oates was professor of history at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, where he taught from 1969 until his retirement in 1997. Oates received his BA (1958), MA (1960), and Ph.D. (1969) from the University of Texas.
Oates wrote 16 books during his career, including biographies of Martin Luther King, Jr., Abraham Lincoln, Clara Barton, and John Brown, and an account of Nat Turner's slave rebellion. His Portrait of America, a compilation of essays about United States history, is widely used in advanced high school and undergraduate university American history courses. His two "Voices of the Storm" books are compilations of monologues of key individuals in events leading up to and during the American Civil War. He also appeared in the well-known Ken Burns PBS documentary on the war.
Oates received the Nevins-Freeman Award of the Chicago Civil War Round Table for his historical work on the American Civil War.
Oates wrote 16 books during his career, including biographies of Martin Luther King, Jr., Abraham Lincoln, Clara Barton, and John Brown, and an account of Nat Turner's slave rebellion. His Portrait of America, a compilation of essays about United States history, is widely used in advanced high school and undergraduate university American history courses. His two "Voices of the Storm" books are compilations of monologues of key individuals in events leading up to and during the American Civil War. He also appeared in the well-known Ken Burns PBS documentary on the war.
Oates received the Nevins-Freeman Award of the Chicago Civil War Round Table for his historical work on the American Civil War.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
June 4, 2012
Nick O
This quarter i read Abraham Lincoln: The Man Behind The Myths by Stephen B. Oates. This book told the story of Lincoln’s life from his birth through his presidency and up until his death. He was assassinated at a play by John Wilkes Booth. It illustrated his whole life and how America was effected by his death. it also talked a lot about Lincoln’s involvement in the Civil War
I thought this book was interesting and had good information. It had a lot of good quotes and facts about Lincoln. though It was a good book it was boring to read, it was like reading a text book.
I give this book a 3 out of 5 because it had very good information but was boring to read. I would recommend this book to people writing an essay on Lincoln or just researching him because they are interested.
This quarter i read Abraham Lincoln: The Man Behind The Myths by Stephen B. Oates. This book told the story of Lincoln’s life from his birth through his presidency and up until his death. He was assassinated at a play by John Wilkes Booth. It illustrated his whole life and how America was effected by his death. it also talked a lot about Lincoln’s involvement in the Civil War
I thought this book was interesting and had good information. It had a lot of good quotes and facts about Lincoln. though It was a good book it was boring to read, it was like reading a text book.
I give this book a 3 out of 5 because it had very good information but was boring to read. I would recommend this book to people writing an essay on Lincoln or just researching him because they are interested.
July 1, 2016
The first four parts of the book were pretty good, but the last part of the book switches from historical storytelling to debunking various Lincoln assassination plots and recounting the final years of Mary Todd Lincoln. It's an odd choice and a super depressing one. It's like drinking a nice cup of tea and getting to the bottom before realizing it was brewed with the distilled tears of orphans.
December 1, 2017
One thing that I like about this author is that he has a "take no prisoners" attitude about people who make things up and try to sell the results as history. Thus, he takes on everyone from Herndon to the folks who did bad Lincoln conspiracy movies.
The only real weakness in the book is that the parts about Mary Lincoln, after her husband's death, just kind of trickle off. Other than partly explaining why her son had her committed [briefly, as it turned out] to a mental institution, there wasn't much of interest in that section. The rest was much better.
Oates portrays a man who is at neither end of the extremes of the ways he is usually described, and that seems both fair and reasonable. This is a very readable book, a quick read but with lots of notes and sources, if you want to do further reading into the various mythologies of Lincoln.
The only real weakness in the book is that the parts about Mary Lincoln, after her husband's death, just kind of trickle off. Other than partly explaining why her son had her committed [briefly, as it turned out] to a mental institution, there wasn't much of interest in that section. The rest was much better.
Oates portrays a man who is at neither end of the extremes of the ways he is usually described, and that seems both fair and reasonable. This is a very readable book, a quick read but with lots of notes and sources, if you want to do further reading into the various mythologies of Lincoln.
February 1, 2025
This biography of Abraham Lincoln provides a fairly thorough examination of his life, particularly his political career. The author engages with previous biographies, highlighting how some writers perpetuated myths about Lincoln that shaped public perception in ways that were not always accurate. In an effort to separate fact from fiction, the book presents a more realistic interpretation of Lincoln’s legacy.
While the biography is relatively concise, it focuses primarily on Lincoln’s political life, leaving aspects of his personal life less explored. I would have appreciated more detail about his relationships with his wife, Mary Todd Lincoln, and their children, particularly Robert Todd Lincoln. Though the book does provide some insight into Mary Lincoln, a deeper exploration of her influence and experiences would have been valuable.
Originally published in the 1980s, this biography raises the question of whether more recent research has shed new light on Lincoln’s life and presidency. Nevertheless, it remains an engaging and informative account of one of America’s most significant historical figures and his lasting impact on the nation.
While the biography is relatively concise, it focuses primarily on Lincoln’s political life, leaving aspects of his personal life less explored. I would have appreciated more detail about his relationships with his wife, Mary Todd Lincoln, and their children, particularly Robert Todd Lincoln. Though the book does provide some insight into Mary Lincoln, a deeper exploration of her influence and experiences would have been valuable.
Originally published in the 1980s, this biography raises the question of whether more recent research has shed new light on Lincoln’s life and presidency. Nevertheless, it remains an engaging and informative account of one of America’s most significant historical figures and his lasting impact on the nation.
July 24, 2018
Uncommonly lyrical writing for biography-maybe because it goes beyond the typical timeline to examine something I've often pondered-is that Lincoln we've read about the real man, or some sort of construct created out of our own need for a father figure/hero? If he is a myth, who guided and guarded his legacy? He comes to some interesting conclusions. Definitely recommended to people who stay read up on Lincoln.
April 23, 2021
This isn't a short biography but more valuable -- it is a succinct summary of the major elements of a biography. Who better to write it than one of his most acclaimed biographers?
The fourth part of the book debunks some of the wilder conspiracy stories. It was the only part of the book that I thought was too long.
P64 re psychology of the Southerners and attitude towards slavery, and how that differed from what Lincoln thought.
The fourth part of the book debunks some of the wilder conspiracy stories. It was the only part of the book that I thought was too long.
P64 re psychology of the Southerners and attitude towards slavery, and how that differed from what Lincoln thought.
September 19, 2021
I found this book to be more informative and interesting than some of the Lincoln biographies I've read (or tried to read) because Oates dispenses with all the practical necessities of a full biography (see his "With Malice Toward None" for that) and focuses on revealing the Lincoln that myths and storytelling have obscured. Following Lincoln's twisting path toward emancipation was especially illuminating.
October 10, 2024
Oates is my favorite Lincoln biographer, and this book did not disappoint. No matter how many books about Lincoln one reads, there seem to always be new nuggets of information to be found, and Oates always delivers those wonderful surprises.
July 10, 2019
The prelude is a tough to get through, not necessary to read this. The rest of the book is a good history that many of us, I'm sure, have mostly forgotten.
October 19, 2021
Boring. Too academic for me.
July 25, 2013
July 19, 2013
A Review by Anthony T. Riggio of Stephen B. Oates, Abraham Lincoln, The Man Behind the Myths.
I downloaded this work from Kindle and it is one of the better biographies of Lincoln, though limited to, many of the common beliefs and misconceptions about the life of Lincoln. Oates wrote this book in 1984 while teaching at the University of Massachusetts in Amherst. His Part one deals with the popular myths about the man, namely the people’s man and the arch villain. It contrasts his reputation in both the North and the South. Oates does a great job in presenting the reasons for much of Lincoln’s mood swings and his preoccupation with the strategy of the war.
Lincoln’s idea’s about slavery are one of the most misunderstood and misinterpreted concepts of his political life and Oates presents these in a dispassionate form. I believe from reading this part, that Mr. Lincoln was always, in his heart of hearts always an abolitionist though many continue to argue about his motives regarding slavery. Oates paints the best conclusion I have read in the many biographies I have read about Lincoln.
All of his leadership efforts are clearly aimed at the preservation of the Union to include his personal belief that the rebel states continued to remain part of the United States. This idea, I believe, motivated his posture on reconstruction as the war was winding down. Evidence of this is clearly manifest in the position of his commanding general US Grant.
It is very clear to the reader that Lincoln’s assassination created an increased difficult time for the White southerners and equally a curse for the newly freed slaves.
I recommend this short book, which is well outlined and commented upon as a balanced biography and one which every student of the Civil War and Abraham Lincoln should add to his collection of must reads. I was very happy to give five stars to this book.
A Review by Anthony T. Riggio of Stephen B. Oates, Abraham Lincoln, The Man Behind the Myths.
I downloaded this work from Kindle and it is one of the better biographies of Lincoln, though limited to, many of the common beliefs and misconceptions about the life of Lincoln. Oates wrote this book in 1984 while teaching at the University of Massachusetts in Amherst. His Part one deals with the popular myths about the man, namely the people’s man and the arch villain. It contrasts his reputation in both the North and the South. Oates does a great job in presenting the reasons for much of Lincoln’s mood swings and his preoccupation with the strategy of the war.
Lincoln’s idea’s about slavery are one of the most misunderstood and misinterpreted concepts of his political life and Oates presents these in a dispassionate form. I believe from reading this part, that Mr. Lincoln was always, in his heart of hearts always an abolitionist though many continue to argue about his motives regarding slavery. Oates paints the best conclusion I have read in the many biographies I have read about Lincoln.
All of his leadership efforts are clearly aimed at the preservation of the Union to include his personal belief that the rebel states continued to remain part of the United States. This idea, I believe, motivated his posture on reconstruction as the war was winding down. Evidence of this is clearly manifest in the position of his commanding general US Grant.
It is very clear to the reader that Lincoln’s assassination created an increased difficult time for the White southerners and equally a curse for the newly freed slaves.
I recommend this short book, which is well outlined and commented upon as a balanced biography and one which every student of the Civil War and Abraham Lincoln should add to his collection of must reads. I was very happy to give five stars to this book.
February 14, 2013
I could spend all my time reading books about Abraham Lincoln! It is very interesting discovering his complex personality including his acclaimed sense of humor. The ultimate self made man demonstrates that you can have wisdom and knowledge without formal schooling. It is difficult to separate fact and fiction but Stephen B. Oates does an admirable job of distinguishing between the historic and mythical Lincoln. Oates presents this history by trying to uncover the truth whether or not it is favorable. I found the discussion of Lincoln's beliefs and his political maneuverings and compromises very interesting. Although he never waivers in his belief that slavery is wrong, his position changes from allowing slavery to die out naturally to emancipation of the slaves in the conquered areas. The author also asserts that Lincoln eventually changed his belief that the slaves should be sent to Africa. I liked this book so much that I was compelled to buy "With Malice Towards None" another Lincoln biography by Stephen B. Oates.
December 28, 2024
This is the second book I've read about Lincoln this year, primarily because I rather admire the man. But I chose this book over one of the many massive biographies out there because this book so succinctly and informatively distills from the myriad details of Lincoln's life both his greatest qualities as well as his great humanity, while also debunking some of the more persistent yet fanciful romantic notions that have persisted about him over the years. And it helps that it was written by the author of what many consider the best one-volume biography ever written about Lincoln. It's a fascinating read, not only because Lincoln was called upon to lead a nation in the midst of an horrific civil war, but also because Lincoln was able to persist as a leader amidst such incredible hostility and adversity. His moral backbone and tenacity in pursuing a vision amidst great resistance are truly characteristics worth celebrating.
April 9, 2014
This book is meant to be a companion volume to 'With Malice Toward None', Oates's biography of Abraham Lincoln. His purpose here is not to give the whole life story of the president but to free him from the countless myths and false personas that have sprung up concerning him. He presents Lincoln as a real man- capable of failures but with tremendous personal courage and unshakable morals, more than enough to justify the respect he has gained in modern society.
The book is easy to read and full of fun anecdotes and interesting trivia about one of America's favorite presidents.
The book is easy to read and full of fun anecdotes and interesting trivia about one of America's favorite presidents.
July 11, 2010
This is one the best biographys I've ever read. I've read quite a bit about Lincoln as I am a big fan. But I felt I got to know him so much better as a person after reading this book. It was written with good flow while still attending to a lot of facts and referring to other books and sources, no small feat! I also liked the fact that is was a short read as I've been busier as of late. I highly reccomend this book.
March 11, 2011
I had to read this for my college history class. I actually enjoyed it because it was very informative. It covers the life of lincoln; however, it's not a biography. Oates strives to help the reader distinguish the "mythological" Lincoln from the "historical" Lincoln. Furthermore, he explain how the mythological Lincoln has influenced our perception of an ideal society. It's a very interesting read.
March 4, 2008
I think this book was very informative. However, it was all facts and the end was the only part written like a story. The end was written very well.
February 9, 2009
This is an excellent book to read if you were to write a paper on Abraham Lincoln, if you are wanting something interesting, than you should probably look elsewhere, as the book is very dull.
March 24, 2009
Stephen B. Oates is a well read writer on Lincoln and a has a good way with putting it into words. I have had this book a long time.
June 22, 2009
This book is excellent for any Lincoln fans like myself. Clearly represents all of the facts of the situations.
November 30, 2010
This is one of the best biographies of Lincoln that I have read. It addresses the criticims as well as the praise and is very well balanced.
Want to read
November 24, 2012$2.99
June 8, 2019
Was an interesting follow-up to my viewing of the movie, Lincoln.
August 21, 2014
Excellent book. This is a comparison of the legends about Lincoln and the historical man. Brings to life how Lincoln grew and adapted as the war progressed. Highly recommended
March 22, 2015
Something of a "Cliff Notes" version of With Malice Toward None. Includes additional material on what took place after Lincoln's assassination and how it affected Mary Lincoln.
July 27, 2016
Although I had to force myself to read this book for a reading challenge, I did actually learn some things. Again not my favorite type of read but I made it thru. No fault to the book...
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews