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The Life of Abraham Lincoln
In his introduction to The Life of Abraham Lincoln, Henry Ketcham notes that there has been so much written about Lincoln that the legend has begun to obscure, if not to efface, the man. “In this biography the single purpose has been to present the living man with such distinctness of outline that the reader may have a sort of feeling of being acquainted with him.”
Ketcham’s clearly-written, unadorned account of Lincoln’s life achieves its stated purpose, never removing its focus from the man who became the 16th President of the United States and led the nation through some of its most turbulent and difficult times.
Ketcham’s clearly-written, unadorned account of Lincoln’s life achieves its stated purpose, never removing its focus from the man who became the 16th President of the United States and led the nation through some of its most turbulent and difficult times.
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First published January 1, 1901
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March 27, 2017
This book was written by Henry Ketcham in 1901, only 36 years after Abraham Lincoln was assassinated. To put that in perspective, it is more recent to Ketcham than President Kennedy's assassination is to us, and Abraham's son Robert was still alive, as well as many other people who knew Abraham Lincoln firsthand. I think that gives Mr. Ketcham a distinct advantage over modern Lincoln biographers, not just from temporal proximity but also from a more accepted national feeling in 1901 of not sugarcoating history nearly as much as we do today. Mr. Ketcham's narration and inclusion of facts is pretty extraordinary, and from Abe's birth to his first practicing in law, you can see his character and quest for knowledge and people skills and humbleness being built and tempered to endure to do the right thing simply because it is the right thing, in any situation, and even go far beyond that, and carrying that forward into his political life and presidency. This is a model that we in 21st century America very much need to have shown to us, and Mr. Ketcham serves us well even today by providing that in this book.
On a closely connected and very important literary note, the three books Abe had in his house to read while growing up were: The Bible, a biography of George Washington, and a book of Aesop's Fables.
The text of Mr. Ketcham's book is in the public domain and can therefore be found on many sites like Gutenberg and iBooks for free.
On a closely connected and very important literary note, the three books Abe had in his house to read while growing up were: The Bible, a biography of George Washington, and a book of Aesop's Fables.
The text of Mr. Ketcham's book is in the public domain and can therefore be found on many sites like Gutenberg and iBooks for free.
June 29, 2011
About a third of the way into this very positive look at the life of Abraham Lincoln it came to my attention that the book was written in 1901. that explained a lot. the style of writing was a bit different from what we see today and I have to say that the portrayal of Lincoln was EXTREMELY positive, to the point of sometimes being excessive. That said though, it was a nice look at our 16th president.
The book was a free download from Amazon for the Kindle so the price was right too.
The book was a free download from Amazon for the Kindle so the price was right too.
January 10, 2020
I really enjoyed this biography of Abraham Lincoln. I didn't realize until after I finished, but it was written in 1901, about 30 years after his assassination, which I find very cool!
I knew quite a bit about Lincoln and the civil war going into this book, but that didn't detract from the book for me. I think it would be a good one for someone who didn't know much about Lincoln though. I listened to it on audible (narration by Brian Troxell, which I would give a very enthusiastic 5 stars), and I think that helped me easily understand the writing style and keep track of all the political players mentioned at the end of the book.
I will say, it's not a very unbiased biography. The author makes a lot of leaps from historical facts to assuming intent. He obviously thought very highly of Lincoln and that showed very clearly. I noticed this more in the second half of the book than the first.
Overall, I found it an informative and accessible biography. I would recommend to anyone modestly (or not at all) familiar with Lincoln's life.
I knew quite a bit about Lincoln and the civil war going into this book, but that didn't detract from the book for me. I think it would be a good one for someone who didn't know much about Lincoln though. I listened to it on audible (narration by Brian Troxell, which I would give a very enthusiastic 5 stars), and I think that helped me easily understand the writing style and keep track of all the political players mentioned at the end of the book.
I will say, it's not a very unbiased biography. The author makes a lot of leaps from historical facts to assuming intent. He obviously thought very highly of Lincoln and that showed very clearly. I noticed this more in the second half of the book than the first.
Overall, I found it an informative and accessible biography. I would recommend to anyone modestly (or not at all) familiar with Lincoln's life.
May 28, 2015
The first time I read this book, I was enamored by this incredible man. The detailed portrait was painted by an author not far removed from Lincoln's life, and he goes to great pains to highlight his subject's honest character, the development of his moral values, his strong leadership, and the noble vision he had for his nation.
Then I learned that there were two sides in the War Between the States.
Early in my reinvestigation of that conflict, I revisited this book, wondering whether the pro-Lincoln perspective it gives could hold water. I was shocked. The author makes constant assumptions about Lincoln's character based on historical facts. For example, did Lincoln's generous treatment of General McClellan flow from a magnanimous heart, or did it simply show he was an effective leader? He hardly mentions many of the unsavory acts Lincoln authorized during the war. When questionable acts are mentioned, they are justified as unfortunate necessities and Lincoln shows sincere regret that such measures are necessary.
This is a quick book that makes for light reading. Anyone armed with some knowledge of the War will feel smart while reading it, because it doesn't take much to critique every page of it.
Then I learned that there were two sides in the War Between the States.
Early in my reinvestigation of that conflict, I revisited this book, wondering whether the pro-Lincoln perspective it gives could hold water. I was shocked. The author makes constant assumptions about Lincoln's character based on historical facts. For example, did Lincoln's generous treatment of General McClellan flow from a magnanimous heart, or did it simply show he was an effective leader? He hardly mentions many of the unsavory acts Lincoln authorized during the war. When questionable acts are mentioned, they are justified as unfortunate necessities and Lincoln shows sincere regret that such measures are necessary.
This is a quick book that makes for light reading. Anyone armed with some knowledge of the War will feel smart while reading it, because it doesn't take much to critique every page of it.
August 5, 2018
Abraham Lincoln is one of the greatest role models of my life. This man has taught me that you can be self-less yet become your truest self, you can be kind and yet be strong.
Lincoln's life appears to be tragedy after tragedy (death of his mother, death of his love, failure after failure of his campaigns), yet he perseveres strongly for his beliefs. This is a man who couldn't stand to see a single animal suffer, and was willing to die for his principles (abolish slavery) during the days when slavery was not only considered normal but people thought Lincoln was evil to abolish it.
This particular book is focused around Lincoln's political career. I did find it a little hard to follow as I have no knowledge at all of history around that period and also there are lot of names that was introduced. I found this book to be a strictly factual account of Lincoln, where as I hoped to see more into Lincoln's psyche and authors interpretation of Lincoln's mindset.
Not a bad read but I found myself getting lost at factual events that seemed like a wikipedia log of events.
Lincoln's life appears to be tragedy after tragedy (death of his mother, death of his love, failure after failure of his campaigns), yet he perseveres strongly for his beliefs. This is a man who couldn't stand to see a single animal suffer, and was willing to die for his principles (abolish slavery) during the days when slavery was not only considered normal but people thought Lincoln was evil to abolish it.
This particular book is focused around Lincoln's political career. I did find it a little hard to follow as I have no knowledge at all of history around that period and also there are lot of names that was introduced. I found this book to be a strictly factual account of Lincoln, where as I hoped to see more into Lincoln's psyche and authors interpretation of Lincoln's mindset.
Not a bad read but I found myself getting lost at factual events that seemed like a wikipedia log of events.
March 18, 2020
I gained a lot of insight into this great man’s life. I thought this book was well written.
August 1, 2014
According to Wikipeda Henry Ketcham fought in the civil war. I wanted to read a history of Lincoln by someone who experienced some of the events and knew Lincoln. Ketcham definitely allowed me to see the Northern Unionist perspective, one would think from reading this that the only reason the South left the union was because of slavery. One might also come away thinking the North was completely blameless before the war and that Lincoln was the Souths greatest friend if only they could have recognized it. I've heard enough from other friends who have researched the matter to make me wonder if this really was the case. To Ketcham, Abraham Lincoln was practically Jesus, almost perfect in deed and character. And if many of the things Ketcham claims about Lincoln are true, maybe he truly was a man of great integrity, wit and humor, wisdom and understanding--a true hero. Yet it's still hard for lovers of liberty to be comfortable with the unconstitutional actions he employed while in office. It would have seemed to preserve the union was something to be achieved at any means. Ketcham said it was really hard for Lincoln to do away things like habeas corpus, but the circumstances of the war made it a necessity for him to do so, maybe so... but. Ketcham often mentioned the patients, unselfishness, lack of personal ambition, honesty, compassion, mercy and tenderness of Lincoln, how he wouldn't hurt a fly and was extremely troubled by the suffering of all people and even the beast. But it is hard to reconcile this with Lincolns approval of Sherman's absolutely horrific march to the sea and scorched earth policy. If what Ketcham says is true, maybe in Lincoln we truly have a mix of a noble man of great character, with the practical Machiavellian Prince who sees the end justifying the most unsavory means. Maybe this is why many see him as Jesus and others view him as Satan incarnate, if one takes either extreme as his starting perspective, he interpret everything else to fit with it. After finishing this book, I kind of lean towards the idea that Lincoln as a truly good man who was placed in a nightmarish situation. In the context Lincoln found himself in, nothing was simple or black-n-white, maybe he often felt like he was place between two evils and had to choose what he saw as the lesser.
July 23, 2015
I had been wanting to read a book on Abraham Lincoln for quite a long time and after looking around and seeing how many of them are out there, I was dumbfounded at where to begin. Also, I will be visiting Abe's hometown of Springfield, Illinois soon and wanted to freshen up on his history.
When I found THE LIFE OF ABRAHAM LINCOLN, I decided that it would be a good starting point for two reasons. First, because it was written in 1901, I figured it would be neat to read a book from closer to when it actually happened and two...it is free in the Kindle Store!
Going all the way back to his childhood in Elizabethtown, Ky and concluding after his assassination, THE LIFE OF ABRAHAM LINCOLN gives the reader a rundown of the entire life of one of the greatest presidents to ever have lived. Having not known much at all about his life, this book was very educational to me. To hear about the honesty, kindness and unwavering determination was quite inspiring. And also the constant danger and threat that he was under, during his presidency, for being such a radical and forward thinking president, was eye opening.
The only real downside to the book was its overt praise of Abe, to the point of almost making him out to be a divined prophet. Not that he wasn't a good and noble man, but author Henry Ketcham so praises Abe that you would think he actually walked on water. It would have been nice to hear even a hint of objectivity.
Being written in 1901 also make the book a little slower to read for me. The language was so different then, that I had to read at a slower than normal pace, to really take it all in.
At right around 250 pages, a lot is mentioned in this book and reading this also has made me want to read a more thorough and in depth biography on Abe.
If you are looking for a book on Abe that is going to give you a good summary of all he did in his life, I would suggest this as a good starting point; it's well written and you can't beat FREE! I give this one 4/5!
When I found THE LIFE OF ABRAHAM LINCOLN, I decided that it would be a good starting point for two reasons. First, because it was written in 1901, I figured it would be neat to read a book from closer to when it actually happened and two...it is free in the Kindle Store!
Going all the way back to his childhood in Elizabethtown, Ky and concluding after his assassination, THE LIFE OF ABRAHAM LINCOLN gives the reader a rundown of the entire life of one of the greatest presidents to ever have lived. Having not known much at all about his life, this book was very educational to me. To hear about the honesty, kindness and unwavering determination was quite inspiring. And also the constant danger and threat that he was under, during his presidency, for being such a radical and forward thinking president, was eye opening.
The only real downside to the book was its overt praise of Abe, to the point of almost making him out to be a divined prophet. Not that he wasn't a good and noble man, but author Henry Ketcham so praises Abe that you would think he actually walked on water. It would have been nice to hear even a hint of objectivity.
Being written in 1901 also make the book a little slower to read for me. The language was so different then, that I had to read at a slower than normal pace, to really take it all in.
At right around 250 pages, a lot is mentioned in this book and reading this also has made me want to read a more thorough and in depth biography on Abe.
If you are looking for a book on Abe that is going to give you a good summary of all he did in his life, I would suggest this as a good starting point; it's well written and you can't beat FREE! I give this one 4/5!
January 19, 2013
In today's age of vitriolic politics, I found it heartening to read this audulatory biography of Abraham Lincoln. Although written over 100 years ago it was very readable. From the get-go Ketcham uses a well-chosen pallet of anecdotes to place the reader in the era of Lincoln's life. You know early on whether you'll enjoy this biography. It is a linear telling, in which Lincoln's upstanding character begins in his childhood and never waivers. Lincoln errs, of course, but in the context of his humanity. According to Ketcham, even his enemies love Lincoln and Lincoln loved all men in return.
It goes on. He's patient, overly so it seems, but to Ketchum this sometimes enabled him to outmaneuver his opponents. He's trusting. He's wise. He's caring of the common man and is deeply disturbed by death. Thankfully, Ketcham does show that his strengths were sometimes weaknesses that nearly cause catastrophic downfall on many occasions.
If you're looking for a story of his marriage and personal life, you'll be disappointed. This is more a telling of his public persona written by someone who twice saw Lincoln during his lifetime. There is much that could be disputed such as that Ketcham believed Lincoln was determined from a young age to end slavery.
I appreciated the amount of detail Ketcham included explaining the lead-up to the Civil War. I think he felt a need to refresh the memory of his contemporary constituents, just as a writer today would need to explain the lead-up to the first Iraq War in a biography of George Bush, Sr. (The comparison ends there.)
One other thing I appreciated. This was the inclusion of Lincoln's own words, mostly speeches, even though Ketcham goes over the top in his praise.
This could be a starting point for reading Lincoln biographies. But it most definitely should not be read as a "definitive" biography.
(This review was based on a Kindle public domain edition.)
It goes on. He's patient, overly so it seems, but to Ketchum this sometimes enabled him to outmaneuver his opponents. He's trusting. He's wise. He's caring of the common man and is deeply disturbed by death. Thankfully, Ketcham does show that his strengths were sometimes weaknesses that nearly cause catastrophic downfall on many occasions.
If you're looking for a story of his marriage and personal life, you'll be disappointed. This is more a telling of his public persona written by someone who twice saw Lincoln during his lifetime. There is much that could be disputed such as that Ketcham believed Lincoln was determined from a young age to end slavery.
I appreciated the amount of detail Ketcham included explaining the lead-up to the Civil War. I think he felt a need to refresh the memory of his contemporary constituents, just as a writer today would need to explain the lead-up to the first Iraq War in a biography of George Bush, Sr. (The comparison ends there.)
One other thing I appreciated. This was the inclusion of Lincoln's own words, mostly speeches, even though Ketcham goes over the top in his praise.
This could be a starting point for reading Lincoln biographies. But it most definitely should not be read as a "definitive" biography.
(This review was based on a Kindle public domain edition.)
February 4, 2016
This is a decent account of one of the most important US presidents, especially because it was published in 1901, a time when some people who actually knew Lincoln were alive. However, I have two reservations about this biography. The first is this biography is somewhat dull. Perhaps this is because the writing style was very different back then. Secondly, this not an objective biography by any measure. The author is clearly an admirer of Lincoln. Here is a short quotation to show illustrate how far this admiration runs: “It took years for them to comprehend the fact that in Mr. Lincoln the country had the wisest, truest, gentlest, noblest, most sagacious President who had occupied the chair of state since Washington retired from it.” This book can still be of value if you understand that it’s not intended to be objective.
July 19, 2012
I've gotta thank another review on this site in regards to this book. He opened my eyes and made me realize there isn't much Abraham Lincoln in this book entitled "The Life of Abraham Lincoln." I love that it was written by a contemporary of that great president, but what you really get when you read this book is a history of the times in which Lincoln was alive. He was a minor character in this book. I don't feel that I got to know the man much at all and look forward to reading another biography that talks more about him than the times he lived in. It's a decent read, but I'm rating it for being a biography that doesn't inform you much about its subject.
Read
June 3, 2010This is a great biography by a near contemporary of Lincoln (Ketcham met Lincoln twice). Ketcham's purpose is to give the reader a sense of what Lincoln was like as a person. The author impresses his own respect for the man on the reader. One is also given a glimpse into the life and times of America during Lincolns life. One comes away with a profound respect for the man, who looms larger than life.
January 15, 2024
A classic
I loved this book because the author actually knew Abraham Lincoln, and wrote this book after Lincoln’s martyrdom. Lincoln was a friend to everyone, and he never believed in slavery. He was a Christian, never believed in violence, was very honest. Also he was a very good speech maker, and he never liked to see anyone in anyway. Of course, I recommend this book to anyone who wants to know about Abraham Lincoln, and his exemplary life!
I loved this book because the author actually knew Abraham Lincoln, and wrote this book after Lincoln’s martyrdom. Lincoln was a friend to everyone, and he never believed in slavery. He was a Christian, never believed in violence, was very honest. Also he was a very good speech maker, and he never liked to see anyone in anyway. Of course, I recommend this book to anyone who wants to know about Abraham Lincoln, and his exemplary life!
October 1, 2011
I am reading this on my Kindle - so it'll take a while. It's a good book so far - humanizes him! I've never been a history buff - so a lot of this book is news to me... Slow reading - not too much time, lately!I learned a lot about Lincoln, the Civil War & his generals... through the eyes of the author... I'm finally finished!
July 9, 2012
Well written, but tooooo much history for me. I just couldn't possibly finish.
I started reading this to check the accuracy of Abe...Vampire Hunter. It's spot on!
To bad I need more intertainment when I read. It would be good for me to learn something now and then.
I started reading this to check the accuracy of Abe...Vampire Hunter. It's spot on!
To bad I need more intertainment when I read. It would be good for me to learn something now and then.
May 22, 2012
The type of biography I enjoy most. An open love letter to the man who did so much for the country. This should be required reading for Americans.
November 28, 2016
Abraham Lincoln was born in rural Kentucky in 1809, to parents of low social standing and little education. During his childhood and early youth, the family would move several times, first to Indiana and later to Illinois. Lincoln's mother, Nancy Hanks, died when Lincoln was still a boy, and the next year his father, Thomas remarried to Sarah Bush Johnston, who helped raise the young Lincoln.
Lincoln got his start in life after a pair of flatboat journeys to New Orleans. Soon afterward, he moved to New Salem, Illinois and set up as a store clerk there. When the Black Hawk War broke out in 1832, he became the captain of his volunteer company, serving for three months but seeing no active duty.
Lincoln's first bid for elected office came in that same year, when he ran unsuccessfully for the Illinois state legislature. Two years later, he ran again and was victorious, becoming a fixture of the Whig party in the General Assembly for the next eight years. At the same time, Lincoln's law career began to flourish. He was admitted to the bar in 1837, and moved to Springfield, the new state capital, later that same year.
Lincoln married Mary Todd in 1842. The couple had four sons together, two of whom would die tragically while still children. Then, in 1846, Lincoln was elected to U.S. Congress, and moved to Washington to serve out his term, where he spoke out against the Mexican War and unsuccessfully attempted to abolish slavery in the District of Columbia.
In 1849, Lincoln returned to Springfield to resume his career as a lawyer and devote more time to his family. His political life seemed to be over. But when the slavery question heated up in the middle 1850s, Lincoln took to the stump again, running unsuccessfully for Senate in 1854 and 1858. Despite these losses, Lincoln gained national exposure due to his flair for oration. Such talent was especially evident during the series of debates he engaged in against Stephen Douglas during the campaign of 1858, when Lincoln established himself as a leading opponent of popular sovereignty.
A combination of luck, manipulation, and talent won Lincoln the Republican nomination for president in 1860. An especially fragmented race, featuring four major candidates, resulted in a victory for Lincoln despite the fact that he won less than 40 percent of the popular vote. With an avowed opponent of slavery having gained the nation's top office, several southern states began to consider the prospect of secession.
An initial wave of secession led by South Carolina brought about the establishment of the Confederate States of America, a self-declared independent nation apart from the United States of America. After Lincoln attempted to reinforce Fort Sumter in Charleston, South Carolina, Confederate forces opened fire and the Civil War began. When Lincoln called for a sizeable militia to quash the rebellion, several more states, led by Virginia, also seceded.
While Lincoln insisted that the Civil War was being fought to preserve the Union, the fate of slavery also played a major role. Lincoln took an overpowering role as commander-in-chief in a time of war. Controversially, he suspended several rights as defined by the Constitution and expanded the powers of both the executive and the federal government considerably. In addition, Lincoln signed several significant pieces of legislation into law, including policies relating to currency, homesteaders, railroads, and taxes.
Today, many view Lincoln's most significant action as president to be his Emancipation Proclamation of January 1, 1863, which paved the way for the Thirteenth Amendment and the abolishment of slavery in the United States. He also became noted for his pithy way with words, giving such memorable speeches as the Gettysburg Address and the Second Inaugural. Together with his trademark beard and stovepipe hat, Lincoln's talent for simple eloquence has become a part of popular legend.
The Civil War proved long and costly for both sides, and though the Union enjoyed superior numbers and stores, they were often overwhelmed by the superior military minds of the Confederacy. Despite heavy criticisms from all sides, Lincoln maintained enough support to win re-election in 1864. As the war drew to a close, Lincoln made preparations for a charitable reconstruction plan to help unify the nation once again.
Less than one week after the Confederate surrender, while attending a Washington theater, Lincoln was assassinated by John Wilkes Booth. The nation mourned as he lay in state, and Illinois wept when her favorite son was interred at Springfield a few weeks later. The work of reconstruction would carry on without Lincoln, but his memory would live on in the nation's imagination. For his work in preserving the union and bringing an end to the "peculiar institution" of slavery, Abraham Lincoln would come to earn a place of honor among the greatest of American heroes.
Lincoln got his start in life after a pair of flatboat journeys to New Orleans. Soon afterward, he moved to New Salem, Illinois and set up as a store clerk there. When the Black Hawk War broke out in 1832, he became the captain of his volunteer company, serving for three months but seeing no active duty.
Lincoln's first bid for elected office came in that same year, when he ran unsuccessfully for the Illinois state legislature. Two years later, he ran again and was victorious, becoming a fixture of the Whig party in the General Assembly for the next eight years. At the same time, Lincoln's law career began to flourish. He was admitted to the bar in 1837, and moved to Springfield, the new state capital, later that same year.
Lincoln married Mary Todd in 1842. The couple had four sons together, two of whom would die tragically while still children. Then, in 1846, Lincoln was elected to U.S. Congress, and moved to Washington to serve out his term, where he spoke out against the Mexican War and unsuccessfully attempted to abolish slavery in the District of Columbia.
In 1849, Lincoln returned to Springfield to resume his career as a lawyer and devote more time to his family. His political life seemed to be over. But when the slavery question heated up in the middle 1850s, Lincoln took to the stump again, running unsuccessfully for Senate in 1854 and 1858. Despite these losses, Lincoln gained national exposure due to his flair for oration. Such talent was especially evident during the series of debates he engaged in against Stephen Douglas during the campaign of 1858, when Lincoln established himself as a leading opponent of popular sovereignty.
A combination of luck, manipulation, and talent won Lincoln the Republican nomination for president in 1860. An especially fragmented race, featuring four major candidates, resulted in a victory for Lincoln despite the fact that he won less than 40 percent of the popular vote. With an avowed opponent of slavery having gained the nation's top office, several southern states began to consider the prospect of secession.
An initial wave of secession led by South Carolina brought about the establishment of the Confederate States of America, a self-declared independent nation apart from the United States of America. After Lincoln attempted to reinforce Fort Sumter in Charleston, South Carolina, Confederate forces opened fire and the Civil War began. When Lincoln called for a sizeable militia to quash the rebellion, several more states, led by Virginia, also seceded.
While Lincoln insisted that the Civil War was being fought to preserve the Union, the fate of slavery also played a major role. Lincoln took an overpowering role as commander-in-chief in a time of war. Controversially, he suspended several rights as defined by the Constitution and expanded the powers of both the executive and the federal government considerably. In addition, Lincoln signed several significant pieces of legislation into law, including policies relating to currency, homesteaders, railroads, and taxes.
Today, many view Lincoln's most significant action as president to be his Emancipation Proclamation of January 1, 1863, which paved the way for the Thirteenth Amendment and the abolishment of slavery in the United States. He also became noted for his pithy way with words, giving such memorable speeches as the Gettysburg Address and the Second Inaugural. Together with his trademark beard and stovepipe hat, Lincoln's talent for simple eloquence has become a part of popular legend.
The Civil War proved long and costly for both sides, and though the Union enjoyed superior numbers and stores, they were often overwhelmed by the superior military minds of the Confederacy. Despite heavy criticisms from all sides, Lincoln maintained enough support to win re-election in 1864. As the war drew to a close, Lincoln made preparations for a charitable reconstruction plan to help unify the nation once again.
Less than one week after the Confederate surrender, while attending a Washington theater, Lincoln was assassinated by John Wilkes Booth. The nation mourned as he lay in state, and Illinois wept when her favorite son was interred at Springfield a few weeks later. The work of reconstruction would carry on without Lincoln, but his memory would live on in the nation's imagination. For his work in preserving the union and bringing an end to the "peculiar institution" of slavery, Abraham Lincoln would come to earn a place of honor among the greatest of American heroes.
February 1, 2019
I've never been an avid reader of biographies, honestly I usually only get part way through before I get bored an move onto a different book, but this one was quite interesting. It not only gave some more background and context to Lincoln's personal life, as well as his professional but also did it in a way that as a reader I was able to connect to the infamous president a little. It brought him down from this renowned person in history to just a person who worked hard, was honest in all his doings, and was very passionate among other things. I found many of the chapters quite enjoyable and ended up marking quite a few quotes that I felt exemplified the nature of Lincoln very well. It followed the standard "formula that you get from many biographies but was able to throw just enough of a spin on it that I wasn't falling asleep as I was flipping through the chapters. If you're into history or are looking for an inspirational, or ambition leader as a guide of sorts I would recommend at least skimming through the book, if not actually sitting down and studying the book.
January 28, 2021
A powerful book, this biography as seen from the perspective of a time only 40 odd years removed from the Civil War and Lincoln’s death, is a moving testimony to the greatness of its subject. I read this as one familiar through much study with the era, the war, the enormity of the challenges facing the leaders, and the insufferable tragedy of a nation split asunder by the tyranny of slavery. But the author’s slant as mentioned, coming so soon (relatively speaking) after the events, provided new insight into the remarkable character of the man Lincoln, and the miracle of Providence in putting such a person in the place of power at just the necessary historical moment. Leaves one marveling at the capacity of one man of great character to change the course of history. In a sense it is the work itself of the man Lincoln that towers over history and renders the attempts to describe, elaborate or embellish such achievements as secondary. And yet they illuminate, and are vital to teach the lessons of history...
July 21, 2025
A biography of an incredible man told in a somewhat dull way. As a book, I would give it 3 stars, but I feel bad rating it so low considering it's about Abe Lincoln.
Make no mistake, the life of Abraham Lincoln deserves to be told and read. He was an exceptional man like few others, who dedicated his life not only to his nation but also to freedom and justice. And since the United States is such an influential country, what was achieved there in the fight against slavery had global significance.
I’ve already read several biographies of both great and not-so-great figures, and I’ve seen less relevant lives told much better. I struggled to finish this book. It started off well, but after the first 20%, it recounts many details in an uninteresting way.
Check out other biographers who have written about this figure, and if you don’t find a better one, read this one; it’s not a waste of time, but it lacks a more reader-friendly structure and a more engaging narrative, the kind that makes it hard to put the book down.
Make no mistake, the life of Abraham Lincoln deserves to be told and read. He was an exceptional man like few others, who dedicated his life not only to his nation but also to freedom and justice. And since the United States is such an influential country, what was achieved there in the fight against slavery had global significance.
I’ve already read several biographies of both great and not-so-great figures, and I’ve seen less relevant lives told much better. I struggled to finish this book. It started off well, but after the first 20%, it recounts many details in an uninteresting way.
Check out other biographers who have written about this figure, and if you don’t find a better one, read this one; it’s not a waste of time, but it lacks a more reader-friendly structure and a more engaging narrative, the kind that makes it hard to put the book down.
August 25, 2023
I usually don't read biography books a lot, but for some reason this one had me intrigued. One thing I found really interesting is that this book was written in 1901! That really surprised me!
I really like this book because of the writing style, I like how informative the book is in almost every aspect of the book. However I feel like there is a con that comes with this style which is that some parts end up feeling slower because of all the distinct details. It almost becomes overwhelming to read which then leads to the reading pace dropping a couple notches. I also really love how Ketchum really put us in a position to make us feel as if we are there with Lincoln and not just someone watching a story play out. I would recommend someone to read this book if they are really into history and want to dive deeper into the background of things such as the civil war and Lincoln's life without just searching information online which barley scratches the surface.
I really like this book because of the writing style, I like how informative the book is in almost every aspect of the book. However I feel like there is a con that comes with this style which is that some parts end up feeling slower because of all the distinct details. It almost becomes overwhelming to read which then leads to the reading pace dropping a couple notches. I also really love how Ketchum really put us in a position to make us feel as if we are there with Lincoln and not just someone watching a story play out. I would recommend someone to read this book if they are really into history and want to dive deeper into the background of things such as the civil war and Lincoln's life without just searching information online which barley scratches the surface.
February 16, 2018
Given that this book was written in 1901, many of those mentioned, including the author, were alive at that time and also had first-hand knowledge and possibly met and knew Lincoln personally. I especially enjoyed reading about the early years because it shows his character being developed. Also, with so much hatred directed at him from many including statements that he should be killed as well as several attempts made to do just that, I can’t help but see parallels to the fanatical hatred and similar death wishes towards President Donald Trump today. I am even more impressed with Lincoln now than before reading this mostly positive account of his life.
January 12, 2020
From the language perspective, very interesting and educational, one can see how the English language has evolved since the time of this writing (190ish) up to this day. From the historical point of view, very informative, and from the writing style and what the author wanted to express it is from time to time too positive about Lincoln, like if he was the very reincarnation of that man without vice and vile, Stoic, always in control of himself and free from wrongdoing, in a word, the very best of all human virtues, can only think that this adds up to the kind of writing that feed on the American Exceptionalism.
September 20, 2024
Mercy
I must be easily moved by life stories because this one is truly incredible. Abraham Lincoln is the epitome of a role model. His mercy during the time of his presidential mantel is commendable. Throughout the book the author gives many examples of mercy extended from Lincoln's hands. True mercy. Not for publicity. Pure of heart. We could all do well to study Lincoln's life if only to momentarily feel the compassion he had for life and those living it. Also of note is the publication of this book was in 1901, making the relevance of this account closer to the man himself than more modern histories.
I must be easily moved by life stories because this one is truly incredible. Abraham Lincoln is the epitome of a role model. His mercy during the time of his presidential mantel is commendable. Throughout the book the author gives many examples of mercy extended from Lincoln's hands. True mercy. Not for publicity. Pure of heart. We could all do well to study Lincoln's life if only to momentarily feel the compassion he had for life and those living it. Also of note is the publication of this book was in 1901, making the relevance of this account closer to the man himself than more modern histories.
February 9, 2021
A great biography of Lincoln that was written about 30 years after he died. I got to see how great a man he was and how God put him where he needed to be to abolish slavery. Everything he did as president including the emancipation proclamation was well thought out and timed perfectly. He had many critics but they failed to grasp the long term effectiveness of his plans. He had mercy and kindness for all. His logic was infallible due to his study of Euclid and his ortatory skills are unmatched. He is truly a leader that every man should exemplify.
November 17, 2021
A well thought out accounting of the life of Abraham Lincoln.
Not being present during the life of Lincoln one would have to take this writing as fact. I found it to be enjoyable, the way the author walked through the life of Lincoln, from birth to death. And how he touched the lives of so many, those who loved him and those who hated him. He respected his enemy and loved this country.
Not being present during the life of Lincoln one would have to take this writing as fact. I found it to be enjoyable, the way the author walked through the life of Lincoln, from birth to death. And how he touched the lives of so many, those who loved him and those who hated him. He respected his enemy and loved this country.
August 7, 2022
Next to Sandburg…
I love this life of Lincoln. It’s simplicity matches the simple complex average giant that Abraham Lincoln is. There is no better starting place for understanding Lincoln Kearns’ Rivals would come next—though as I was raised on Sandburg’s Lincoln, Carl Sandburg and Aaron Copeland are the very sound of the man.
As I would be ashamed that from us has walked men like Trump or Pierce so I am proud that arose from us was such a man as Lincoln.
I love this life of Lincoln. It’s simplicity matches the simple complex average giant that Abraham Lincoln is. There is no better starting place for understanding Lincoln Kearns’ Rivals would come next—though as I was raised on Sandburg’s Lincoln, Carl Sandburg and Aaron Copeland are the very sound of the man.
As I would be ashamed that from us has walked men like Trump or Pierce so I am proud that arose from us was such a man as Lincoln.
October 23, 2022
A very moving biographical sketch. It is structured neatly with clear political backgrounds. It's a sincere ode to one of the world's greatest heroes.
"But there was a native grace, the out-growth of kindness of heart, which never failed to shine through all his words and acts. His heart was as tender as a woman's,—as accessible to grief and gladness as a child's,—yet strong as Hercules to bear the anxieties and responsibilities of the awful burden that rested on it."
"But there was a native grace, the out-growth of kindness of heart, which never failed to shine through all his words and acts. His heart was as tender as a woman's,—as accessible to grief and gladness as a child's,—yet strong as Hercules to bear the anxieties and responsibilities of the awful burden that rested on it."
February 4, 2017
A beautifully written book that was hard to put down. The book sheds a lot of light on his early years as a country lawyer and his political beginnings. It also gives the reader a real sense of the division and chaos the country was in during the war and even the several years leading up to it. The reader is guaranteed to have a renewed respect for Lincoln after reading this book.
August 24, 2017
Am amazing man
I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know President Lincoln through Ketcham's intelligent, thoughtful style. The author does a good job of presenting Lincoln's many virtues while still showing his mistakes. Lincoln is a man to be studied and emulated, and this is a great pace to start.
I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know President Lincoln through Ketcham's intelligent, thoughtful style. The author does a good job of presenting Lincoln's many virtues while still showing his mistakes. Lincoln is a man to be studied and emulated, and this is a great pace to start.
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