"A strong but judicious enemy to slavery" - Congressman Lincoln (1847-1849)
As a member of congress the Lincolns move to Washington, which at the time could be described as a city dealing with both 'magnificence and squalor.' Lincoln became very popular for his wit and humor. His time in congress is marked by a very strong anti-Mexican War sentiment and a denunciation of President Polk, for which he was criticized. He battles for the Whig Party opinion that slavery should not spread to free territories and should be abolished where it exists.
©2009 Michael Burligame; (P)2009 Gildan Media Corp
"Lincoln scholars have waited anxiously for this book for decades. Its triumphant publication proves it was well worth the wait. Few scholars have written with greater insight about the psychology of Lincoln. No one in recent history has uncovered more fresh sources than Michael Burlingame. This profound and masterful portrait will be read and studied for years to come." (Doris Kearns Goodwin)
"The most meticulously researched Lincoln biography ever written. Burlingame's Lincoln comes alive as the author unfolds vast amounts of new research while breathing new life into familiar stories. It is the essential title for the bicentennial." (Publishers Weekly)