How did Josiah Gilbert, William H. Herndon, and Carl Sandberg view Lincoln?

Holland

Herndon

Sandberg

Is there anything about Lincoln's background that suggested that he might become a great person?

What effect did Lincoln's alienation from his family have upon him?

What did Lincoln see in Mary Todd? What did Mary Todd see in Lincoln?

Was Lincoln's suffering from depression an advantage or a disadvantage in being president during the Civil War? Explain why.

How did Lincoln cope with his depression? Was it effective?

According to Lincoln, what was the "Central Idea of the Civil War?" Why was it so important to Lincoln?

Why did Lincoln reinforce Fort Sumter?

Why did Lincoln not announce his policy of emancipation early during the Civil War?

When and why did Lincoln announce his policy of emancipation?

Was Lincoln a racist? (see especially pages 23 & 54)

How can Lincoln's self doubt and his effective leadership be reconciled?

What was Lincoln's opinion on Reconstruction at the time of his death, according to the author?

How effective was Lincoln as president?