What do you think?
Rate this book
Lincoln and the Fight for Peace
A groundbreaking, revelatory history of Abraham Lincoln’s plan to secure a just and lasting peace after the Civil War—a vision that inspired future presidents as well as the world’s most famous peacemakers, including Nelson Mandela, Mahatma Gandhi, and Martin Luther King, Jr. It is a story of war and peace, race and reconciliation.
As the tide of the Civil War turned in the spring of 1865, Abraham Lincoln took a dangerous two-week trip to visit the troops on the front lines accompanied by his young son, seeing combat up close, meeting liberated slaves in the ruins of Richmond, and comforting wounded Union and Confederate soldiers.
The power of Lincoln’s personal example in the closing days of the war offers a portrait of a peacemaker. He did not demonize people he disagreed with. He used humor, logic, and scripture to depolarize bitter debates. Balancing moral courage with moderation, Lincoln believed that decency could be the most practical form of politics, but he understood that people were more inclined to listen to reason when greeted from a position of strength. Ulysses S. Grant’s famously generous terms of surrender to General Robert E. Lee at Appomattox that April were a direct expression of the president’s belief that a soft peace should follow a hard war.
While his assassination sent the country careening off course, Lincoln’s vision would be vindicated long after his death, inspiring future generations in their own quests to secure a just and lasting peace. As US General Lucius Clay, architect of the post-WWII German occupation, said when asked what guided his “I tried to think of the kind of occupation the South would have had if Abraham Lincoln had lived.�
Lincoln and the Fight for Peace reveals how Lincoln’s character informed his commitment to unconditional surrender followed by a magnanimous peace. Even during the Civil War, surrounded by reactionaries and radicals, he refused to back down from his belief that there is more that unites us than divides us. But he also understood that peace needs to be waged with as much intensity as war. Lincoln’s plan to win the peace is his unfinished symphony, but in its existing notes, we can find an anthem that can begin to bridge our divisions today.
As the tide of the Civil War turned in the spring of 1865, Abraham Lincoln took a dangerous two-week trip to visit the troops on the front lines accompanied by his young son, seeing combat up close, meeting liberated slaves in the ruins of Richmond, and comforting wounded Union and Confederate soldiers.
The power of Lincoln’s personal example in the closing days of the war offers a portrait of a peacemaker. He did not demonize people he disagreed with. He used humor, logic, and scripture to depolarize bitter debates. Balancing moral courage with moderation, Lincoln believed that decency could be the most practical form of politics, but he understood that people were more inclined to listen to reason when greeted from a position of strength. Ulysses S. Grant’s famously generous terms of surrender to General Robert E. Lee at Appomattox that April were a direct expression of the president’s belief that a soft peace should follow a hard war.
While his assassination sent the country careening off course, Lincoln’s vision would be vindicated long after his death, inspiring future generations in their own quests to secure a just and lasting peace. As US General Lucius Clay, architect of the post-WWII German occupation, said when asked what guided his “I tried to think of the kind of occupation the South would have had if Abraham Lincoln had lived.�
Lincoln and the Fight for Peace reveals how Lincoln’s character informed his commitment to unconditional surrender followed by a magnanimous peace. Even during the Civil War, surrounded by reactionaries and radicals, he refused to back down from his belief that there is more that unites us than divides us. But he also understood that peace needs to be waged with as much intensity as war. Lincoln’s plan to win the peace is his unfinished symphony, but in its existing notes, we can find an anthem that can begin to bridge our divisions today.
368 pages, Hardcover
First published February 15, 2022
113 people are currently reading
741 people want to read
About the author
John P. Avlon
9books69followersJohn Phillips Avlon (born 1973) is the author of Independent Nation: How Centrists Can Change American Politics and Wingnuts: How the Lunatic Fringe is Hijacking America. He was a columnist and associate editor for The New York Sun and worked as chief speechwriter for former New York mayor Rudolph Giuliani. He was Director of Speechwriting and Deputy Policy Director for Giuliani's 2008 presidential campaign. He is a senior fellow at the Manhattan Institute. He is senior political columnist at TheDailyBeast.com.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
July 15, 2022
4.5 stars
"Power and responsibility visibly widened his mind and elevated his character. Difficulties, instead of irritating him as they do most men, only increased his reliance on patience; opposition, instead of ulcerating, only made him more tolerant and determined." -- British journalist Walter Bagehot of The Economist, in the aftermath of Abraham Lincoln's assassination, on page 188
Avlon's Lincoln and the Fight for Peace is an engaging and interesting take on the 16th U.S. president (arguably the most beloved, and certainly the most respected, of those 45 who held the position), but it is not quite a biography. The initial thirty or forty pages occasionally cover his early life, but the majority of the text centers on his final months in office when he was attempting to end the Civil War. Lincoln truly wanted to be a peacemaker for the fractured and battle-ravaged country, and the author illustrates how his courage, intelligence, humor and even plain Midwestern decency helped set the course for reconciliation before his tragic death at age fifty-six. The post-script then focuses on a handful of wartime leaders during the 20th century - such as presidents Woodrow Wilson and Harry Truman, and U.S. Army General Douglas MacArthur - and how they applied principals or ideas gleaned from Lincoln in the declining days of the momentous World Wars. When an acquaintance saw that I was finishing this book she inquired "Is it good?," and my extemporaneous response - and I'm not one to deify politicians, especially with how some (many?) of them act these days - was "We didn't deserve him, but thank God we had him for a brief time." Rest in peace, Mr. Lincoln.
"Power and responsibility visibly widened his mind and elevated his character. Difficulties, instead of irritating him as they do most men, only increased his reliance on patience; opposition, instead of ulcerating, only made him more tolerant and determined." -- British journalist Walter Bagehot of The Economist, in the aftermath of Abraham Lincoln's assassination, on page 188
Avlon's Lincoln and the Fight for Peace is an engaging and interesting take on the 16th U.S. president (arguably the most beloved, and certainly the most respected, of those 45 who held the position), but it is not quite a biography. The initial thirty or forty pages occasionally cover his early life, but the majority of the text centers on his final months in office when he was attempting to end the Civil War. Lincoln truly wanted to be a peacemaker for the fractured and battle-ravaged country, and the author illustrates how his courage, intelligence, humor and even plain Midwestern decency helped set the course for reconciliation before his tragic death at age fifty-six. The post-script then focuses on a handful of wartime leaders during the 20th century - such as presidents Woodrow Wilson and Harry Truman, and U.S. Army General Douglas MacArthur - and how they applied principals or ideas gleaned from Lincoln in the declining days of the momentous World Wars. When an acquaintance saw that I was finishing this book she inquired "Is it good?," and my extemporaneous response - and I'm not one to deify politicians, especially with how some (many?) of them act these days - was "We didn't deserve him, but thank God we had him for a brief time." Rest in peace, Mr. Lincoln.
June 21, 2024
Abraham Lincoln And The Overcoming Of Polarization
With so much divisiveness in the United States, it is valuable to think about American history to understand its nature and, perhaps, its mitigation. John Avlon, Senior Fellow at the Manhattan Institute and the author of "Independent Nation: How the Vital Center is Changing American Politics" and "Washington's Farewell: The Founding Father's Warning to Future Generations" has made an effort towards this end in his recent book, "Lincoln and the Fight for Peace" (2022). His book is an exercise in public history in that it studies history outside the boundaries of the academy to make it accessible to a broad range of people.
The book has the explicit goal of showing how the legacy of our 16th president can help Americans with divisiveness and polarization, both among ourselves and with other nations. It thus paints broadly over its less than 300 pages. As Avlon points out, over 16,000 books have been written about Lincoln. While not an in-depth scholarly work, "Lincoln and the Fight for Peace" is thoughtful and accessible, both for those with a detailed knowledge of Lincoln and for those who are interested in his accomplishments and legacy.
Avlon begins with a lengthy Introduction setting forth the basics of Lincoln's life and presidency. The first three sections of the book cover the final few weeks of Lincoln's life, interweaving his own activities with the upcoming end of the Civil War and trying to find how Lincoln proposed to deal with the peace. The book focuses on a sixteen day trip Lincoln took to City Point, Virginia during the final days of the Siege of Petersburg and examines Lincoln's relationship with Grant and the Union military command, his peace negotiations with Confederate leaders, and his actions in Richmond after its fall. The aim of the discussion is to show how Lincoln insisted both on an unconditional surrender to end the war and then on a reconciliationist, malice-free approach to peace and to putting the country back together. Some of this material also is covered in Civil War historian Noah Trudeau's book "Lincoln's Greatest Journey: Sixteen Days that Changed a Presidency, March 24 -- April 8, 1865". Avlon's focus is broader, however, and his treatment shorter.
Within a week of this trip, Lincoln would be assassinated on Good Friday, April 14, 1865. Historians have debated endlessly on the "what-ifs" of Reconstruction if Lincoln had lived. Avlon wisely does not take a stance on the particulars. He points to the tragedy of Lincoln's death and argues that his policy of peace would somehow have been both firmer in protecting the rights of the freed former slaves and also less provocative of ill-feeling and violence from the defeated South. It is a tall order and a hard case to make in a few pages.
Avlon proceeds in Section V to discuss Reconstruction itself through Andrew Johnson, the Radical Republicans, President Grant, and the disputed election of 1876. He aptly points out many of the failures of the Era. One could hope that the spirit of Lincoln, outlined in Avlon's book, might have done better.
The final section of the book leaves Lincoln's era behind to explore WW I, WW II, and the Cold War and their quests for peace. By this time, Lincoln had become, and rightly so, a figure revered throughout the world. Avlon briefly suggests the ways in which activities of American statesmen at the end of these conflicts both met and failed to meet Lincoln's goals of firmness in war and on non-negotiable goals followed by magnanimity in peace.
In his conclusion, Avlon returns to Lincoln's Second Inaugural Address and asks the reader to rethink its concluding paragraph which he describes as the "best sentence in our democracy" with "a durable wisdom, pointing imperfect people toward a more perfect union."
The book includes the texts of the Second Inaugural Address and of Lincoln's Final Speech, delivered from the White House on April 11, 1865.
With its brevity and scope, "Lincoln and the Fight for Peace" is an inspiring work of public history. Readers will learn about Lincoln and they may come to reflect on our current state of polarization in a new way. Avlon has written admirably in encouraging Americans to think about their history.
Robin Friedman
With so much divisiveness in the United States, it is valuable to think about American history to understand its nature and, perhaps, its mitigation. John Avlon, Senior Fellow at the Manhattan Institute and the author of "Independent Nation: How the Vital Center is Changing American Politics" and "Washington's Farewell: The Founding Father's Warning to Future Generations" has made an effort towards this end in his recent book, "Lincoln and the Fight for Peace" (2022). His book is an exercise in public history in that it studies history outside the boundaries of the academy to make it accessible to a broad range of people.
The book has the explicit goal of showing how the legacy of our 16th president can help Americans with divisiveness and polarization, both among ourselves and with other nations. It thus paints broadly over its less than 300 pages. As Avlon points out, over 16,000 books have been written about Lincoln. While not an in-depth scholarly work, "Lincoln and the Fight for Peace" is thoughtful and accessible, both for those with a detailed knowledge of Lincoln and for those who are interested in his accomplishments and legacy.
Avlon begins with a lengthy Introduction setting forth the basics of Lincoln's life and presidency. The first three sections of the book cover the final few weeks of Lincoln's life, interweaving his own activities with the upcoming end of the Civil War and trying to find how Lincoln proposed to deal with the peace. The book focuses on a sixteen day trip Lincoln took to City Point, Virginia during the final days of the Siege of Petersburg and examines Lincoln's relationship with Grant and the Union military command, his peace negotiations with Confederate leaders, and his actions in Richmond after its fall. The aim of the discussion is to show how Lincoln insisted both on an unconditional surrender to end the war and then on a reconciliationist, malice-free approach to peace and to putting the country back together. Some of this material also is covered in Civil War historian Noah Trudeau's book "Lincoln's Greatest Journey: Sixteen Days that Changed a Presidency, March 24 -- April 8, 1865". Avlon's focus is broader, however, and his treatment shorter.
Within a week of this trip, Lincoln would be assassinated on Good Friday, April 14, 1865. Historians have debated endlessly on the "what-ifs" of Reconstruction if Lincoln had lived. Avlon wisely does not take a stance on the particulars. He points to the tragedy of Lincoln's death and argues that his policy of peace would somehow have been both firmer in protecting the rights of the freed former slaves and also less provocative of ill-feeling and violence from the defeated South. It is a tall order and a hard case to make in a few pages.
Avlon proceeds in Section V to discuss Reconstruction itself through Andrew Johnson, the Radical Republicans, President Grant, and the disputed election of 1876. He aptly points out many of the failures of the Era. One could hope that the spirit of Lincoln, outlined in Avlon's book, might have done better.
The final section of the book leaves Lincoln's era behind to explore WW I, WW II, and the Cold War and their quests for peace. By this time, Lincoln had become, and rightly so, a figure revered throughout the world. Avlon briefly suggests the ways in which activities of American statesmen at the end of these conflicts both met and failed to meet Lincoln's goals of firmness in war and on non-negotiable goals followed by magnanimity in peace.
In his conclusion, Avlon returns to Lincoln's Second Inaugural Address and asks the reader to rethink its concluding paragraph which he describes as the "best sentence in our democracy" with "a durable wisdom, pointing imperfect people toward a more perfect union."
The book includes the texts of the Second Inaugural Address and of Lincoln's Final Speech, delivered from the White House on April 11, 1865.
With its brevity and scope, "Lincoln and the Fight for Peace" is an inspiring work of public history. Readers will learn about Lincoln and they may come to reflect on our current state of polarization in a new way. Avlon has written admirably in encouraging Americans to think about their history.
Robin Friedman
February 15, 2023
Well worth the read, and potential for learning from Lincoln to save the future.
David J. Kent
President, Lincoln Group of DC, and author of Lincoln: The Fire of Genius: How Abraham Lincoln's Commitment to Science and Technology Helped Modernize America
David J. Kent
President, Lincoln Group of DC, and author of Lincoln: The Fire of Genius: How Abraham Lincoln's Commitment to Science and Technology Helped Modernize America
March 1, 2022
Are you a Lincoln fan, or looking for a new perspective on Lincoln's time during the Civil War? This is a great book with lots of new information and perspectives. I am a huge Lincoln fan and have read many books on him over the years, but this was a fresh perspective and I greatly enjoyed it.
June 8, 2022
To date over 16,000 books have been written on Abraham Lincoln, so why another? In the current case, John Avlon a former Daily Beast editor, author of serious studies of political centrism, and a current CNN analyst has authored LINCOLN AND THE FIGHT FOR PEACE AND FREEDOM which takes a unique approach toward our 16th president. The book focuses on the six weeks from Lincoln’s second inauguration through his assassination as the Civil War finally concluded and the war over the peace had begun. According to Avlon, Lincoln evolved into the conciliator-in-chief in his approach to the south and was vehemently against a punitive peace. Lincoln sought to reunite the country through empathy, understanding, humility and a deep belief that in order to bring the country together after four years of war and over 600,000 casualties a reconstruction policy must be implemented that was perceptive of the needs and beliefs of the former enemy and bring about a coalescing of moderate political elements to block the extremists that remained on both sides of the political spectrum. For Avlon Lincoln’s approach to winning the peace would serve as a model for future post war negotiations, for example General Lucius Clay’s approach toward Germany after World War II to prevent the revanchism that took place after World War I.
Today our politicians are engaged in a form of political partisanship which at times places our nation at the precipice of civil war. No matter the issue; protecting children from the ravages of a failed gun control debate, overturning Roe v. Wade, the refusal to accept the results of a fair and free democratic election, the denial of voting rights, and numerous other issues makes it clear that something is broken in our political system. The question that confronts the American electorate is whether politicians, with their lust for power are so dug in their positions that the odds of any reconciliation between Democrats and Republicans, with extreme elements in both parties appears unlikely in the near future.
In the state that we find our political discourse, John Avlon raised the banner of Abraham Lincoln to serve as a role model as to how we can fix, or at least reorient our body politic. Avlon begins his narrative on April 4, 1865, as the Civil War winds down with Lincoln’s visit to Richmond, Va. the capital of the defeated Confederacy. Unaccompanied by a large number of troops or any celebratory instruments the president walked the streets of the city with his son Tad greeting former enemy soldiers and citizens with compassion, humor, and kindness. Lincoln’s mantra was to heal the nation and not erase the history of the war � history required learning the right lessons, so we would not be condemned to repeat them. He was committed to stopping the cycle of violence, changing his focus from winning the war, to winning the peace.
Lincoln’s world view centered on three ”indispensable conditions:� no ceasefire before surrender, the restoration of the union, and the end of slavery for all time. “Everything else was negotiable. Lincoln wanted a hard war to be followed by a soft peace; but there would be no compromise on these core principles.� For Lincoln winning the peace meant if you failed to do so you would have lost the war. Lincoln worked without a historical parallel to guide him. He would establish a new model of leadership focused on reconciliation that would make a long and just peace possible � unconditional surrender followed by a magnanimous peace. Even though he would be assassinated five days after Robert E. Lee surrendered, in the last six weeks of his life that included his second inaugural address he articulated a clear vision that he hoped would result in a peaceful reunification of his country, “with malice toward none; with charity for all.�
The fight for peace needed to be waged with the intensity that rivals war in order for the United States to be redeemed and serve as a beacon of universal freedom. To achieve this “unconditional surrender� was sacrosanct. Lincoln needed to eradicate the cause of the war � slavery and ensuring the rebels accepted a decisive defeat. Lincoln wanted a constitutional amendment ending slavery before the end of the war as he was fully aware that once the war concluded Congress would not have the courage to do so. “The 13th amendment was the political expression of unconditional surrender: there would be no retreat from the end of slavery.�
Avlon has written a highly readable account of how Lincoln hoped to achieve his goals dealing with a recalcitrant Congress and elements in the Confederacy who did not want to admit defeat. He takes the reader through the history of the final six weeks of Lincoln’s presidency step by step culminating in his assassination at Ford’s theater. Lincoln’s core beliefs can be summed up in the Biblical construct of the “golden rule,� a combination of common sense and the moral imagination to dislodge deeply ingrained prejudice.
Avlon has the uncanny ability to apply his phrasing to portray Lincoln’s soul be it a visit to City Point, Va. to reach out to wounded Confederate soldiers to his tearful and heart felt reaction to the carnage of war when he visited battlefields. Avlon is able to convey the substance of Lincoln on a personal and public level as he grappled with bringing the war to a conclusion and at the same time set the foundation of lasting peace through reconciliation and understanding. At times it seems Lincoln may have been too lenient, but Avlon points to certain non-negotiable issues where the president’s back was stiffened where he refused to give in. As Lincoln biographer and historian Allen Guelzo writes it is “Lincoln who tells the African American soldiers of the Black 29th Connecticut that ‘you are now as free as I am,� and if they meet any Southerners who claim to not know that you are free, take the sword and the bayonet and teach them that you are; for God created all men free, giving to each the same rights of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.�*
I agree with Guelzo’s analysis of Avlon’s overall theme in that “As much as Avlon is convinced that Lincoln’s “commitment to reconciliation retains the force of revelation,� “Lincoln and the Fight for Peace� is short on the exact content of that revelation for the postwar years. Frederick Douglass insisted in 1866 that “Mr. Lincoln would have been in favor of the enfranchisement of the colored race,� and Avlon is not wrong to see Lincoln favoring a reinvention of the South as a small-scale manufacturing economy to replace the plantation oligarchy that triggered the war. But Lincoln played his political cards so close to the chest that, beyond this, it is unclear exactly what directions he thought Reconstruction should take. It is still less clear whether even he would have been successful (had he survived the assassin’s bullet) in pulling any of it off in just the three years that remained to him in his second term.�
Avlon possesses a tremendous faith in the words and actions of Abraham Lincoln during his lifetime and how they resonated in the last third of the 19th century through the end of World War II. As historian Ted Widmer writes, “Lincoln offers a boost of confidence at a time when our history, instead of uniting us, has become yet another battleground. With insight, he chooses familiar and lesser-known Lincoln phrases to remind readers how much we still have to learn from our 16th president. His book also offers an extra dividend, coming as it does in the midst of Ukraine’s agony. Avlon closes with the final sentences of the second inaugural address, and its hope that we can “achieve and cherish a just, and a lasting peace, among ourselves, and with all nations.� As Lincoln understood, the work of democracy at home is indispensable to the work of peace abroad. It is reassuring to have the case for each restated so cogently.�**
*Allen C. Guelzo, “A Lincoln for Our Polarized Times,� New York Times, February 15, 2022.
**Ted Widmer, “Lessons from Lincoln’s Leadership at the Close of the Civil War,� Washington Post, April 15, 2022.
Today our politicians are engaged in a form of political partisanship which at times places our nation at the precipice of civil war. No matter the issue; protecting children from the ravages of a failed gun control debate, overturning Roe v. Wade, the refusal to accept the results of a fair and free democratic election, the denial of voting rights, and numerous other issues makes it clear that something is broken in our political system. The question that confronts the American electorate is whether politicians, with their lust for power are so dug in their positions that the odds of any reconciliation between Democrats and Republicans, with extreme elements in both parties appears unlikely in the near future.
In the state that we find our political discourse, John Avlon raised the banner of Abraham Lincoln to serve as a role model as to how we can fix, or at least reorient our body politic. Avlon begins his narrative on April 4, 1865, as the Civil War winds down with Lincoln’s visit to Richmond, Va. the capital of the defeated Confederacy. Unaccompanied by a large number of troops or any celebratory instruments the president walked the streets of the city with his son Tad greeting former enemy soldiers and citizens with compassion, humor, and kindness. Lincoln’s mantra was to heal the nation and not erase the history of the war � history required learning the right lessons, so we would not be condemned to repeat them. He was committed to stopping the cycle of violence, changing his focus from winning the war, to winning the peace.
Lincoln’s world view centered on three ”indispensable conditions:� no ceasefire before surrender, the restoration of the union, and the end of slavery for all time. “Everything else was negotiable. Lincoln wanted a hard war to be followed by a soft peace; but there would be no compromise on these core principles.� For Lincoln winning the peace meant if you failed to do so you would have lost the war. Lincoln worked without a historical parallel to guide him. He would establish a new model of leadership focused on reconciliation that would make a long and just peace possible � unconditional surrender followed by a magnanimous peace. Even though he would be assassinated five days after Robert E. Lee surrendered, in the last six weeks of his life that included his second inaugural address he articulated a clear vision that he hoped would result in a peaceful reunification of his country, “with malice toward none; with charity for all.�
The fight for peace needed to be waged with the intensity that rivals war in order for the United States to be redeemed and serve as a beacon of universal freedom. To achieve this “unconditional surrender� was sacrosanct. Lincoln needed to eradicate the cause of the war � slavery and ensuring the rebels accepted a decisive defeat. Lincoln wanted a constitutional amendment ending slavery before the end of the war as he was fully aware that once the war concluded Congress would not have the courage to do so. “The 13th amendment was the political expression of unconditional surrender: there would be no retreat from the end of slavery.�
Avlon has written a highly readable account of how Lincoln hoped to achieve his goals dealing with a recalcitrant Congress and elements in the Confederacy who did not want to admit defeat. He takes the reader through the history of the final six weeks of Lincoln’s presidency step by step culminating in his assassination at Ford’s theater. Lincoln’s core beliefs can be summed up in the Biblical construct of the “golden rule,� a combination of common sense and the moral imagination to dislodge deeply ingrained prejudice.
Avlon has the uncanny ability to apply his phrasing to portray Lincoln’s soul be it a visit to City Point, Va. to reach out to wounded Confederate soldiers to his tearful and heart felt reaction to the carnage of war when he visited battlefields. Avlon is able to convey the substance of Lincoln on a personal and public level as he grappled with bringing the war to a conclusion and at the same time set the foundation of lasting peace through reconciliation and understanding. At times it seems Lincoln may have been too lenient, but Avlon points to certain non-negotiable issues where the president’s back was stiffened where he refused to give in. As Lincoln biographer and historian Allen Guelzo writes it is “Lincoln who tells the African American soldiers of the Black 29th Connecticut that ‘you are now as free as I am,� and if they meet any Southerners who claim to not know that you are free, take the sword and the bayonet and teach them that you are; for God created all men free, giving to each the same rights of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.�*
I agree with Guelzo’s analysis of Avlon’s overall theme in that “As much as Avlon is convinced that Lincoln’s “commitment to reconciliation retains the force of revelation,� “Lincoln and the Fight for Peace� is short on the exact content of that revelation for the postwar years. Frederick Douglass insisted in 1866 that “Mr. Lincoln would have been in favor of the enfranchisement of the colored race,� and Avlon is not wrong to see Lincoln favoring a reinvention of the South as a small-scale manufacturing economy to replace the plantation oligarchy that triggered the war. But Lincoln played his political cards so close to the chest that, beyond this, it is unclear exactly what directions he thought Reconstruction should take. It is still less clear whether even he would have been successful (had he survived the assassin’s bullet) in pulling any of it off in just the three years that remained to him in his second term.�
Avlon possesses a tremendous faith in the words and actions of Abraham Lincoln during his lifetime and how they resonated in the last third of the 19th century through the end of World War II. As historian Ted Widmer writes, “Lincoln offers a boost of confidence at a time when our history, instead of uniting us, has become yet another battleground. With insight, he chooses familiar and lesser-known Lincoln phrases to remind readers how much we still have to learn from our 16th president. His book also offers an extra dividend, coming as it does in the midst of Ukraine’s agony. Avlon closes with the final sentences of the second inaugural address, and its hope that we can “achieve and cherish a just, and a lasting peace, among ourselves, and with all nations.� As Lincoln understood, the work of democracy at home is indispensable to the work of peace abroad. It is reassuring to have the case for each restated so cogently.�**
*Allen C. Guelzo, “A Lincoln for Our Polarized Times,� New York Times, February 15, 2022.
**Ted Widmer, “Lessons from Lincoln’s Leadership at the Close of the Civil War,� Washington Post, April 15, 2022.
February 21, 2022
I really appreciate the case that the author sets out to make but believe he came up short.
One of my favorite works growing up with Isaac Asimov's "Foundation" trilogy, which has recently come back as an "Apple+ TV" movie series that refreshed my memory. Asimov poses a scheme he terms "psychohistory" that ties future events to something current and makes that future knowable based on immutable events to which all the players are tied - one needs only tweak here and the future will turn out as desired. Avlon tries tying 20th century events to Lincoln's wisdom in similar fashion.
I had hoped that this work about Lincoln would reveal new events in Lincoln's life that we could learn from today, but the treatment of the end of the Civil War was far too shallow. Then Avlon takes his scant work on Lincoln and makes sweeping connections to WWI and WWII and its players that are far removed and wishes us to believe that the Lincoln of the Civil War had the wisdom the Asimov's Hari Seldon - a nice try, but no brass ring. I think he would have been better off with a good magazine article about the subject of Lincoln's intent based on his observed actions, but that the assassin's bullet cut that avenue off - full stop.
One of my favorite works growing up with Isaac Asimov's "Foundation" trilogy, which has recently come back as an "Apple+ TV" movie series that refreshed my memory. Asimov poses a scheme he terms "psychohistory" that ties future events to something current and makes that future knowable based on immutable events to which all the players are tied - one needs only tweak here and the future will turn out as desired. Avlon tries tying 20th century events to Lincoln's wisdom in similar fashion.
I had hoped that this work about Lincoln would reveal new events in Lincoln's life that we could learn from today, but the treatment of the end of the Civil War was far too shallow. Then Avlon takes his scant work on Lincoln and makes sweeping connections to WWI and WWII and its players that are far removed and wishes us to believe that the Lincoln of the Civil War had the wisdom the Asimov's Hari Seldon - a nice try, but no brass ring. I think he would have been better off with a good magazine article about the subject of Lincoln's intent based on his observed actions, but that the assassin's bullet cut that avenue off - full stop.
February 27, 2022
Thousands of books have been written about Abraham Lincoln, but few have focused on the last days of his life and his plan to restore the Union. “This is the story of Abraham Lincoln’s plan to win the peace after winning the war, his vision for national reconciliation and reunification.�
His plan was brilliant in its simplicity and understanding of human nature but difficult to put into practice � “unconditional surrender followed by magnanimous peace.� Alas, his successors did not prove up to the task and the country went through another century of lost opportunity and upheaval.
Lincoln refused to enter into a negotiated peace under a temporary truce. He knew that the country would inevitably slip back into violence were victory not clear and indisputable. Having finally secured unconditional surrender, however, he was a generous victor, even allowing Lee’s army to keep their horses and a few weapons to use for peaceful purposes. The southern soldiers were simply allowed to return to their towns and families.
“We are not enemies, but friends, though passion many have strained, it must not break our bonds of affection.� It was a perspective long since forgotten in this age of rabid polarization and red-hot hatred. Oh how we could use his leadership now.
Avlon is a solid writer and despite the sensitivities of the subjects involved (three-quarters of a million Americans died) he studiously avoids getting drawn into emotional platitudes and subjective judgments. The book is well researched and he stays very much on topic throughout.
The Lincoln portrayed here is truly a remarkable man, in large part because of how unremarkable he considered himself to be. He was incredibly brave, to be sure. But he also had periods of self-doubt, suffered depression, and had spats with his spouse to the same extent most of us do.
He was not FDR or John Kennedy. He was not handsome or refined. But he understood human nature. And that was an understanding so desperately needed, but totally lacking, at Versailles (ending World War I), and in Washington today.
I highly recommend you read this book. Even more importantly I highly recommend you buy a copy for your sons and daughters when they reach an age when they are thrust into the world in whatever role they may play. Lincoln’s was a perspective we can all benefit from yet today. Perhaps now more than ever.
His plan was brilliant in its simplicity and understanding of human nature but difficult to put into practice � “unconditional surrender followed by magnanimous peace.� Alas, his successors did not prove up to the task and the country went through another century of lost opportunity and upheaval.
Lincoln refused to enter into a negotiated peace under a temporary truce. He knew that the country would inevitably slip back into violence were victory not clear and indisputable. Having finally secured unconditional surrender, however, he was a generous victor, even allowing Lee’s army to keep their horses and a few weapons to use for peaceful purposes. The southern soldiers were simply allowed to return to their towns and families.
“We are not enemies, but friends, though passion many have strained, it must not break our bonds of affection.� It was a perspective long since forgotten in this age of rabid polarization and red-hot hatred. Oh how we could use his leadership now.
Avlon is a solid writer and despite the sensitivities of the subjects involved (three-quarters of a million Americans died) he studiously avoids getting drawn into emotional platitudes and subjective judgments. The book is well researched and he stays very much on topic throughout.
The Lincoln portrayed here is truly a remarkable man, in large part because of how unremarkable he considered himself to be. He was incredibly brave, to be sure. But he also had periods of self-doubt, suffered depression, and had spats with his spouse to the same extent most of us do.
He was not FDR or John Kennedy. He was not handsome or refined. But he understood human nature. And that was an understanding so desperately needed, but totally lacking, at Versailles (ending World War I), and in Washington today.
I highly recommend you read this book. Even more importantly I highly recommend you buy a copy for your sons and daughters when they reach an age when they are thrust into the world in whatever role they may play. Lincoln’s was a perspective we can all benefit from yet today. Perhaps now more than ever.
March 17, 2022
Simply stated, this is an amazing and captivating book written. I'm not generally very interested in the retelling of history, it can be a boring and dull subject. I'm thankful that during my years in college and graduate school that I was blessed with professors who made history come alive by largely ignoring dates, names and other uninteresting things and instead focusing on the big picture of human existence and the everyday life of regular people.
This book is both historical and contemporary and should be consider for study by all who have a role in leadership or governance. The book also shines clearly on the human shortcomings of unrestrained power and unquenchable control. The author does a superior job of weaving the facts of history into a reflection of what was taking place during the time period of the book (yes, it goes well beyond Lincoln's presidency) and provides the clear foundational understanding of how Lincoln's wisdom has and continues to guide America and the world.
Highly recommend this book!!
This book is both historical and contemporary and should be consider for study by all who have a role in leadership or governance. The book also shines clearly on the human shortcomings of unrestrained power and unquenchable control. The author does a superior job of weaving the facts of history into a reflection of what was taking place during the time period of the book (yes, it goes well beyond Lincoln's presidency) and provides the clear foundational understanding of how Lincoln's wisdom has and continues to guide America and the world.
Highly recommend this book!!
March 25, 2022
Well written account of Lincoln's last weeks and his thinking about the post war peace. Writer has a pleasant, easy style, and clearly has done his research. Lincoln comes across as both a good man and a great president, who wanted to rebuild the south after the war. A couple of late chapters in the book delineate how reconstruction actually worked out, and how Lincoln's example influenced both General Clay (Germany) and Gen MacArthur (Japan) in their respective, and much later, post war duties.
January 2, 2023
Avlon sheds light on the last months of Lincoln’s life and his efforts to end the war and develop a plan for a reunited nation. His analysis, thoughtful and clear, then extends to the failures of Reconstruction and an analysis of the efforts of later presidents as they approached issues of peace and reconciliation. I wish more people in power would read this and other books about Lincoln, and keep his example in mind as we navigate our own turbulent times.
March 10, 2022
Focused on the power of Lincoln's ideas and values. A lesson for today: unconditional surrender coupled with a magnanimous peace. If only it were possibel with aggressors like Putin.
Parallels between Lincoln's position in history and his sucessor (his only real mistake) and our devolution to 45.
Parallels between Lincoln's position in history and his sucessor (his only real mistake) and our devolution to 45.
September 28, 2022
Lincoln's ideas for peace are frequently overlooked due to his death. John Avlon provides a good step toward erasing that gap in Lincoln studies with good application to our present-day difficulties in the US. Please read this book!
March 16, 2022
While I am mostly a fiction reader and mostly historical fiction, I gave this book 5 stars because of how much I love Lincoln now and admire him for all that did for our country. And equally as important how he had positive influences on many people around the world. I pray that we one day will have someone as President who loves our citizens and wants peace to all people.
March 22, 2022
Outstanding
Absolutely awesome. John Avlon has brought such relevance of Lincoln which is needed so much right now. Thank you so much!
Absolutely awesome. John Avlon has brought such relevance of Lincoln which is needed so much right now. Thank you so much!
April 13, 2022
Overall I learned a lot from this read. It gave me a new perspective on Abraham Lincoln's philosophy, bit more importantly his character. I love the focus on Lincoln with the undertones about the civil war, its origins and manifestations. It truly shows Lincoln in action. Clearly the author did a great job reviewing and portraying civil war dates, names and locations accurately, through the war, the days following, and up to Lincoln's assassination.
Perhaps the part I enjoyed and learned the most was regarding World War II. The discussion on how many of the military officers were descendants of those involved in the Civil War was intriguing to me. Especially when the author demonstrates how Lincoln's philosophy carried with them and influenced the outcome of the war and its aftermath. I really appreciate this perspective!
At the end though, I feel like the book should have stopped a bit sooner than it did. I understand the author's intent by walking through more recent events since the Civil War and how Lincoln's legacy influenced them. I think discussing Barack Obama and Donald Trump in present-day is a bit too far, and in my opinion, detracts from the overall read. Regardless of your political background, I felt like 95% of this read was awesome, but the last 5%, diving into the intricacies of today's modern world and political division, left a bad taste in my mouth. To me this last bit nearly poisoned the whole book. This of course is my opinion, and obviously the author put it there for a reason.
The overall writing style is pretty easy to follow. There are many tangents that in the moment seem confusing or like they come from left field, but ultimately they come back and make sense.
My original plan was to give four stars because though this read is a bit wordy and tangential at times, it ultimately led to a productive discussion and I learned a lot. Because of my comments above about the ending, though, I've decided to downgrade to three stars. I can't help but ask the author to reconsider that last bit in future editions.
The worth above are mine without influence.
Perhaps the part I enjoyed and learned the most was regarding World War II. The discussion on how many of the military officers were descendants of those involved in the Civil War was intriguing to me. Especially when the author demonstrates how Lincoln's philosophy carried with them and influenced the outcome of the war and its aftermath. I really appreciate this perspective!
At the end though, I feel like the book should have stopped a bit sooner than it did. I understand the author's intent by walking through more recent events since the Civil War and how Lincoln's legacy influenced them. I think discussing Barack Obama and Donald Trump in present-day is a bit too far, and in my opinion, detracts from the overall read. Regardless of your political background, I felt like 95% of this read was awesome, but the last 5%, diving into the intricacies of today's modern world and political division, left a bad taste in my mouth. To me this last bit nearly poisoned the whole book. This of course is my opinion, and obviously the author put it there for a reason.
The overall writing style is pretty easy to follow. There are many tangents that in the moment seem confusing or like they come from left field, but ultimately they come back and make sense.
My original plan was to give four stars because though this read is a bit wordy and tangential at times, it ultimately led to a productive discussion and I learned a lot. Because of my comments above about the ending, though, I've decided to downgrade to three stars. I can't help but ask the author to reconsider that last bit in future editions.
The worth above are mine without influence.
January 1, 2023
It's true. There are a million books about Lincoln out there. And. . .I'm a fan, so carry a bias. That said, I still wholeheartedly recommend Lincoln and the Fight for Peace.
I've lived through a number of this nation's wars. News on family TVs, radio personalities' announcements and revelations, school text books and self-selected commercially provided products - all these are how we learned of wars in our world. And by how our own family (tribe/clan) members reacted. Small Pitchers DO have small and listening ears. So many of our political "feelings" begin at home and the voters in our lives. When I was a kid in the 50's, 60's, it was the men who puffed the air with loud and interesting talk, while the women were in the kitchen.
These wars started from decision consequences far removed from me and my world (at least that's what I perceive) and at some point they stop, settle, fizzle, we just quit or someone runs out of bullets. Then that war is relegated to being an item on a list. Starting date, stopping date, who participated. Who died. Check Wikipedia or Google it. I never remember or know why.
The Civil War is different - and this author writes from a point of view that is new to me, but resonates with me - Abraham Lincoln had specific reasons for engaging, even given the great risk of permanent division, yet his greater point, longer view, endgame was all about AFTER. . .about the Peace. His was a fight that continued after the victory. . . in fact, the author shows, the victory could for Lincoln be only achieved with peace between the combatants and their supporters (known and unknown). In other words, although Lee had surrendered, effectively ending the War, victory hadn't yet been reached when Lincoln was assassinated. In fact, the author shows, it is something for which we are still striving. Mostly. He selects examples of post-Lincoln national life and shows how Lincoln's fight for peace still affects present-day America and decision-makers, through the power of truth, myth, or political associations.
Thought-provoking, worth re-reading and approaching from different directions, this book has informative endpapers with the author's research sources, notes and even a few of Lincoln's speeches.
I have to end with this - from Lincoln's Second Inaugural Speech:
America is North and South, White and Black, Republican and Democrat. We are laughter and loss, Saturday night and Sunday morning, Old Testament and New. Liberty and equality are not opposites in inevitable conflict, but act in concert under the practical balance of the Union. In the end, even war and peace are intimately entwined. . . .
With malice toward none, with charity for all, with firmness in the right as God gives us to see the right, let us strive on to finish the work we are in, to bind up the nation’s wounds, to care for him who shall have borne the battle and for his widow and his orphan; to do all which may achieve and cherish a just and a lasting peace among ourselves and with all nations."
- A. Lincoln, March 4, 1865
John Avlon. Lincoln and the Fight for Peace (Kindle Locations 4486-4488). Kindle Edition.
A Sincere Thank You to John Avlon, Simon & Schuster and NetGalley for an ARC to read and review.
I've lived through a number of this nation's wars. News on family TVs, radio personalities' announcements and revelations, school text books and self-selected commercially provided products - all these are how we learned of wars in our world. And by how our own family (tribe/clan) members reacted. Small Pitchers DO have small and listening ears. So many of our political "feelings" begin at home and the voters in our lives. When I was a kid in the 50's, 60's, it was the men who puffed the air with loud and interesting talk, while the women were in the kitchen.
These wars started from decision consequences far removed from me and my world (at least that's what I perceive) and at some point they stop, settle, fizzle, we just quit or someone runs out of bullets. Then that war is relegated to being an item on a list. Starting date, stopping date, who participated. Who died. Check Wikipedia or Google it. I never remember or know why.
The Civil War is different - and this author writes from a point of view that is new to me, but resonates with me - Abraham Lincoln had specific reasons for engaging, even given the great risk of permanent division, yet his greater point, longer view, endgame was all about AFTER. . .about the Peace. His was a fight that continued after the victory. . . in fact, the author shows, the victory could for Lincoln be only achieved with peace between the combatants and their supporters (known and unknown). In other words, although Lee had surrendered, effectively ending the War, victory hadn't yet been reached when Lincoln was assassinated. In fact, the author shows, it is something for which we are still striving. Mostly. He selects examples of post-Lincoln national life and shows how Lincoln's fight for peace still affects present-day America and decision-makers, through the power of truth, myth, or political associations.
Thought-provoking, worth re-reading and approaching from different directions, this book has informative endpapers with the author's research sources, notes and even a few of Lincoln's speeches.
I have to end with this - from Lincoln's Second Inaugural Speech:
America is North and South, White and Black, Republican and Democrat. We are laughter and loss, Saturday night and Sunday morning, Old Testament and New. Liberty and equality are not opposites in inevitable conflict, but act in concert under the practical balance of the Union. In the end, even war and peace are intimately entwined. . . .
With malice toward none, with charity for all, with firmness in the right as God gives us to see the right, let us strive on to finish the work we are in, to bind up the nation’s wounds, to care for him who shall have borne the battle and for his widow and his orphan; to do all which may achieve and cherish a just and a lasting peace among ourselves and with all nations."
- A. Lincoln, March 4, 1865
John Avlon. Lincoln and the Fight for Peace (Kindle Locations 4486-4488). Kindle Edition.
A Sincere Thank You to John Avlon, Simon & Schuster and NetGalley for an ARC to read and review.
March 10, 2022
Avlon’s work is not historical method, but hero worship. It joins a chorus of publications going back more than a hundred-fifty years idolizing the sixteenth president. Abraham Lincoln occupies a unique place in the nation’s history and deserves critical study. Although his memory is steeped in myth and legend, the factual record is there for those who look.
I grew up admiring Lincoln and even acquired Carl Sandburg’s laudatory four volume set, “The War Years�. Later when researching an ancestor’s service in the Civil War, I began intensive reading in primary sources, the U.S. “Official Records�, diaries, and memoirs. Then I saw the war up close, unlike what I’d learned in school, an invasion of the South, not for noble aims but for holding empire.
Half through the introduction, Avlon gives his view on what happened: “a small band of slave-owning extremists was able to hijack American politics, divide the country, and start the Civil War.� The author then adds dishonesty to his editorializing, “Southern politicians never dared to put the decision to break apart the Union to a popular vote . . . because they likely would have lost�. Three pages later, Avlon repeats the fallacy, claiming secessionists relied on “closed partisan conventions, refusing to put the question to a popular vote.� He should know the “popular vote� did not exist until the turn of the century. In truth the Southern states did exactly what they had done at the country’s founding, choosing delegates, and holding conventions, but this time voting to leave the Union rather than joining it. There was no difference in the process, only the outcome.
The problem was Lincoln “insisted that there was no right to secession in the Constitution, and, therefore, his oath required taking action.� His predecessor, James Buchanan, felt differently, not willing to wage war on free countrymen. But as the sixteenth president said in his second inaugural address, “And the war came,� like he had no part in it.
This is not history, nor even a character study; rather the book is a paean, celebrating Lincoln’s rise in the heavenlies as “prophet of reconciliation�.
Lincoln believed he was in touch with God, writing to a supporter, “Men are not flattered by being shown that there has been a difference of purpose between the Almighty and them.� “It is a truth which I thought needed to be told.� This is Lincoln, divining God’s will, and revealing it to ordinary man.
At the Hampton Roads peace conference, Lincoln had iron-clad demands, countenancing no cessation of war without unconditional surrender. This is the books thesis, that the sixteenth president was a visionary, discovering that reducing an enemy to utter defeat, followed by generous terms, would lead to a just and lasting peace. But this has happened only once: the Marshall Plan following WWII. More recent wars (Korean, Vietnam) ended in stalemate, an armistice followed by decades free of conflict.
The book’s claim that Lincoln was a deific peacemaker is an excess. He singularly called up state militias for the invasion of the South, prompting some historians to call the conflict “Lincoln’s War.�
The sixteenth president was a shrewd lawyer, a consummate politician, the finest writer to hold the office, and a great man, but he was not the Jesus figure portrayed by his followers.
I grew up admiring Lincoln and even acquired Carl Sandburg’s laudatory four volume set, “The War Years�. Later when researching an ancestor’s service in the Civil War, I began intensive reading in primary sources, the U.S. “Official Records�, diaries, and memoirs. Then I saw the war up close, unlike what I’d learned in school, an invasion of the South, not for noble aims but for holding empire.
Half through the introduction, Avlon gives his view on what happened: “a small band of slave-owning extremists was able to hijack American politics, divide the country, and start the Civil War.� The author then adds dishonesty to his editorializing, “Southern politicians never dared to put the decision to break apart the Union to a popular vote . . . because they likely would have lost�. Three pages later, Avlon repeats the fallacy, claiming secessionists relied on “closed partisan conventions, refusing to put the question to a popular vote.� He should know the “popular vote� did not exist until the turn of the century. In truth the Southern states did exactly what they had done at the country’s founding, choosing delegates, and holding conventions, but this time voting to leave the Union rather than joining it. There was no difference in the process, only the outcome.
The problem was Lincoln “insisted that there was no right to secession in the Constitution, and, therefore, his oath required taking action.� His predecessor, James Buchanan, felt differently, not willing to wage war on free countrymen. But as the sixteenth president said in his second inaugural address, “And the war came,� like he had no part in it.
This is not history, nor even a character study; rather the book is a paean, celebrating Lincoln’s rise in the heavenlies as “prophet of reconciliation�.
Lincoln believed he was in touch with God, writing to a supporter, “Men are not flattered by being shown that there has been a difference of purpose between the Almighty and them.� “It is a truth which I thought needed to be told.� This is Lincoln, divining God’s will, and revealing it to ordinary man.
At the Hampton Roads peace conference, Lincoln had iron-clad demands, countenancing no cessation of war without unconditional surrender. This is the books thesis, that the sixteenth president was a visionary, discovering that reducing an enemy to utter defeat, followed by generous terms, would lead to a just and lasting peace. But this has happened only once: the Marshall Plan following WWII. More recent wars (Korean, Vietnam) ended in stalemate, an armistice followed by decades free of conflict.
The book’s claim that Lincoln was a deific peacemaker is an excess. He singularly called up state militias for the invasion of the South, prompting some historians to call the conflict “Lincoln’s War.�
The sixteenth president was a shrewd lawyer, a consummate politician, the finest writer to hold the office, and a great man, but he was not the Jesus figure portrayed by his followers.
March 19, 2022
Outstanding read on our 16th President and his quest for peace. The author provides a very good background on Lincoln and other primary characters and how each of them fit into the puzzle of what a post-war America would look like. Even as the war continued, and especially after it appeared that the Union would prevail (battles of Anietam, Gettysburg, taking of Atlanta, destroying the Shenandoah Valley), Lincoln was already giving great thought to bringing the nation back together as one. He did not want to just have the war and, and that was that. His vision included bringing the former confederate states back into the union, with certain stipulations, but doing it fairly. More than once he discussed" malice towards none and charity to all" as his philosophy for binding the wounds of the nation. Had he lived, and Andrew Johnson not become president, many issues that we are still overcoming today would have either been mitigated, or non existent. The assassin's bullet, of John Wilkes Booth, brought much more devastation to the South and many years of racial injustice to the entire country. Lincoln's plan was to be very magnanimous to the South, but it was not to be. Interestingly, Mr. Avalon does not stop with the end of the Civil War. He goes on to provide how two U. S. Generals (Lucian Clay and Douglas MacArthur) used Lincoln's tactics to win the lasting peace with Japan and Germany. Describing how the allies messed up, with the end of WW I, the allies got it correct with the end of WW II, by insisting on Unconditional Surrender of the Axis (WW I, Germany never actually surrendered...they basically just quit fighting), and then working with the "conquered" nations to help them rebuild, as democracies...just as Lincoln would have done with the South. Interesting to note how Clay and MacArthur used Lincoln's 19th century philosophy to bring to a successful close the worst war in human history in the 20th century. Good book, I highly recommend it.
June 8, 2022
The power of Lincoln’s personal example in the closing days of the war offers a portrait of a peacemaker. He did not demonize people he disagreed with. He used humor, logic, and scripture to depolarize bitter debates. Balancing moral courage with moderation, Lincoln believed that decency could be the most practical form of politics, but he understood that people were more inclined to listen to reason when greeted from a position of strength. Ulysses S. Grant’s famously generous terms of surrender to General Robert E. Lee at Appomattox that April were a direct expression of the president’s belief that a soft peace should follow a hard war.
While his assassination sent the country careening off course, Lincoln’s vision would be vindicated long after his death, inspiring future generations in their own quests to secure a just and lasting peace. As US General Lucius Clay, architect of the post-WWII German occupation, said when asked what guided his decisions: “I tried to think of the kind of occupation the South would have had if Abraham Lincoln had lived.�
Lincoln and the Fight for Peace reveals how Lincoln’s character informed his commitment to unconditional surrender followed by a magnanimous peace. Even during the Civil War, surrounded by reactionaries and radicals, he refused to back down from his belief that there is more that unites us than divides us. But he also understood that peace needs to be waged with as much intensity as war. Lincoln’s plan to win the peace is his unfinished symphony, but in its existing notes, we can find an anthem that can begin to bridge our divisions today.
It's as though history is repeating itself: a country divided, race inequality, war, voter suppression, a "stolen" election, all existed in Lincoln's time and the decade after his assassination.
Lincoln's impact on not only the United States, but on the leaders of countries throughout the world was extensive and long-lasting.
While his assassination sent the country careening off course, Lincoln’s vision would be vindicated long after his death, inspiring future generations in their own quests to secure a just and lasting peace. As US General Lucius Clay, architect of the post-WWII German occupation, said when asked what guided his decisions: “I tried to think of the kind of occupation the South would have had if Abraham Lincoln had lived.�
Lincoln and the Fight for Peace reveals how Lincoln’s character informed his commitment to unconditional surrender followed by a magnanimous peace. Even during the Civil War, surrounded by reactionaries and radicals, he refused to back down from his belief that there is more that unites us than divides us. But he also understood that peace needs to be waged with as much intensity as war. Lincoln’s plan to win the peace is his unfinished symphony, but in its existing notes, we can find an anthem that can begin to bridge our divisions today.
It's as though history is repeating itself: a country divided, race inequality, war, voter suppression, a "stolen" election, all existed in Lincoln's time and the decade after his assassination.
Lincoln's impact on not only the United States, but on the leaders of countries throughout the world was extensive and long-lasting.
February 19, 2024
“America had a meaning beyond itself, Lincoln believed. Our patriotism is more than mere nationalism and our success is not for ourselves alone. Americans—whom he called “God’s almost chosen people”—had a sacred trust to save democracy, to find redemption for the original sin of slavery, and to secure “a just, and a lasting peace, between ourselves and with all nations.� Because of Lincoln’s moral courage, moderation, and subsequent martyrdom, the United States survived the Civil War and grew stronger. He showed us that despite the deepest divisions, a diverse democracy could reunite and find a new birth of freedom, however flawed. Today, almost 250 years from our founding, it’s sometimes said that America feels more divided than at any point since the Civil War. Bitter partisanship; tribal politics; regional, racial, and economic divides have turned fellow citizens against one another while trust in our institutions declines. The idea of the Good America that rebuilt Europe can seem distant while the rise of demagogues and dictators in our time strains the belief that right makes might. Lincoln’s example offers us a path away from polarization. His commitment to reconciliation retains the force of revelation. Even during the Civil War, he refused to back down from his belief that there is more that unites us than divides us. And he showed us that defending democracy is a cause that can be just as heroic as winning it in the first place. Lincoln’s plan to win the peace is his unfinished symphony; but in its existing notes, we can find an anthem that can begin to bridge our divisions.�
June 7, 2022
Avlon skillfully weaves a thread of history from the Civil War through the Cold War. He shows how Abraham Lincoln evolved in his thinking about slavery and race, supplying interest vignettes from the spring of 1865 along the way. Lincoln understood if the North didn't win the peace, it really hadn't won the war. Lincoln insisted on three nonnegotiables: no cease-fire before unconditional surrender; the end of slavery; and union reunification. Yet Lincoln understood the importance of not oppressing the South. He truly believed in malice toward none and charity to all.
Sadly, his successor Andrew Johnson prevented Lincoln's plan from being implemented, setting civil rights back a century in the process. The racist Johnson ordered the removal of Black troops from the South and granted pardons to high Confederate officials (in essence restoring to power in state governments). Johnson's actions resulted in a backlash that prompted a more stringent Reconstruction that Lincoln envisioned and set up resistance that culminated with the formation of the Ku Klux Klan.
Consequently, segregation replaced slavery as the law of the South. The oppression continued under Woodrow Wilson, who ousted Blacks from government agencies during World War I.
Thankfully, Harry Truman followed Lincoln's blueprint for peace at the end of World War II, deploying the Marshall Plan after the removal of Nazis from positions of authority. Lincoln became an extremely popular postwar figure in Germany and Japan. Truman desegregated the military, causing a rebellion in his Democratic Party.
Sadly, his successor Andrew Johnson prevented Lincoln's plan from being implemented, setting civil rights back a century in the process. The racist Johnson ordered the removal of Black troops from the South and granted pardons to high Confederate officials (in essence restoring to power in state governments). Johnson's actions resulted in a backlash that prompted a more stringent Reconstruction that Lincoln envisioned and set up resistance that culminated with the formation of the Ku Klux Klan.
Consequently, segregation replaced slavery as the law of the South. The oppression continued under Woodrow Wilson, who ousted Blacks from government agencies during World War I.
Thankfully, Harry Truman followed Lincoln's blueprint for peace at the end of World War II, deploying the Marshall Plan after the removal of Nazis from positions of authority. Lincoln became an extremely popular postwar figure in Germany and Japan. Truman desegregated the military, causing a rebellion in his Democratic Party.
August 28, 2022
Not a very complex Lincoln book, but it has some very interesting facts and tidbits that provide one view of Lincoln as he approached the end of the Civil War. Avlon lays out Lincoln's vision for peace, which was at odds with the Radical Republicans' desire for vengeance. His terms of unconditional surrender as opposed to a cease fire/negotiated settlement, proved to be fully accurate and a road map for future wars, born out by how post-WWI Germany fared vs. post WWII Germany.
The book moves through the second inaugural until Lincoln's assassination on April 14, to illuminate Lincoln's natural empathy and humility that led to a "malice toward none" vision for the country after the war ends. Figures such as U.S. Grant and other military leaders who understood and embraced the vision are examined, and how they chose to carry out that vision. Andrew Johnson's complete revocation of Reconstruction is also in the spotlight.
Then we see how leaders such as Woodrow Wilson did not work hard enough to apply the lessons from Reconstruction to FDR, Marshall, Eisenhower, and MacArthur who crafted plans before their war ended to instill Lincoln's vision in Germany and Japan. Avlon also includes the many other times leaders invoked Lincoln as they worked toward social change.
Photos and Illustrations are included. The conclusion is about the only place Avlon acknowledges Lincoln's faults and poor decisions, so this is a full homage as opposed to a critical analysis of this very great man.
The book moves through the second inaugural until Lincoln's assassination on April 14, to illuminate Lincoln's natural empathy and humility that led to a "malice toward none" vision for the country after the war ends. Figures such as U.S. Grant and other military leaders who understood and embraced the vision are examined, and how they chose to carry out that vision. Andrew Johnson's complete revocation of Reconstruction is also in the spotlight.
Then we see how leaders such as Woodrow Wilson did not work hard enough to apply the lessons from Reconstruction to FDR, Marshall, Eisenhower, and MacArthur who crafted plans before their war ended to instill Lincoln's vision in Germany and Japan. Avlon also includes the many other times leaders invoked Lincoln as they worked toward social change.
Photos and Illustrations are included. The conclusion is about the only place Avlon acknowledges Lincoln's faults and poor decisions, so this is a full homage as opposed to a critical analysis of this very great man.
April 11, 2022
Avlon's book centers on Lincoln's plan to restore the nation after the Civil War and how it has served as a model since. A large portion of the book is centered around the period between his 2nd Inaugural (maybe the most important speech in American history) and his assassination, covering his two-week visit to the Army of the Potomac, unpretentious entrance into Richmond and his conferences with military leaders, former Confederates and Union politicians in detail. Avlon's account actually increases the esteem, if such a thing is possible, in which I hold Lincoln. He very correctly characterizes him as a man with a soft heart and a tough mind.
Lincoln's formula for peace was unconditional surrender (thus depriving the defeated of the ability to later claim they weren't really beaten) followed by magnanimous terms and the reforging of relationships, making friends of enemies. There are of course certain principles which are rock-solid and non-negotiable, e.g., the protection of the recently freed slaves and their full equality under the law. Unfortunately, Lincoln's principles were abandoned, condemning America to a near century of Jim Crow.
Lincoln's vision has informed American policymakers ever since. In the later chapters, Avlon shows what happens when this formula is followed (Germany and Japan following WWII) and when it is not (Germany following WWI).
A necessary book that shows we can indeed learn from and be guided by the lessons of history.
Lincoln's formula for peace was unconditional surrender (thus depriving the defeated of the ability to later claim they weren't really beaten) followed by magnanimous terms and the reforging of relationships, making friends of enemies. There are of course certain principles which are rock-solid and non-negotiable, e.g., the protection of the recently freed slaves and their full equality under the law. Unfortunately, Lincoln's principles were abandoned, condemning America to a near century of Jim Crow.
Lincoln's vision has informed American policymakers ever since. In the later chapters, Avlon shows what happens when this formula is followed (Germany and Japan following WWII) and when it is not (Germany following WWI).
A necessary book that shows we can indeed learn from and be guided by the lessons of history.
April 20, 2022
Avlon, and incredibly gifted writer, tells the tale of Lincoln as the Civil War winds down. What emerges is the Lincoln the man, who was almost too good to be true. Lincoln comes across as a person of extraordinary "charity" and patience. One cannot help but be inspired by Lincoln and Avlon's writing only helps serve the cause. The incredible strain on Lincoln both because of the war and at times his home life is almost impossible to comprehend. It is remarkable that he succumbed to an assassin's bullet and not an affliction brought about from the stress. Avlon does not end the story with Lincoln, he briefly sketches that tragedy of the post Lincoln period and the premature dismantling of Reconstruction. The only failing of the book is the end where Avlon tries to find some lessons learned from Lincoln. He compares how Allies treated the defeated powers in both world wars. This last part of the book feels rushed and really is unnecessary. It is conventional wisdom that Treaty of Versailles was punitive but rarely if ever recounted is how the terms were loosened up over time. Whatever Versailles was at the end of WWI, it was practically toothless by the time Hitler got going. Nonetheless, the first 4/5ths of the book is so good that I heartily recommend.
April 3, 2023
I read A LOT of history books so I often enjoy when an author approaches a common topic or event from a unique angle or perspective. Going into this book I wasn’t expecting it to be too far from another retelling of Lincoln in 1865. But I was pleasantly surprised to find the angle of Lincoln as “peacemaker� handled much more in depth than I expected. While this book does retell Lincoln’s life from the 2nd Inaugural onward there’s a lot more too it than that. I might remove a point for it seemingly a little bouncing around the timeline at the start, but since I’m already very familiar with these events I didn’t have any trouble hanging on to the ride. A newbie to the events might get a little lost at the beginning but before long the author settles into a fairly straightforward follow the events in order approach. One thing I did enjoy was the comparison of Lincoln’s peacemaking approach to how the USA tried to copy it after WWI and WWII. This was an interesting examination which helped me really grasp that the book was more than a retelling of events but instead an in-depth deep dive into a philosophy that we ourselves can examine and apply elsewhere in history past or the future ahead.
April 11, 2023
Audiobook narrated by author.
I expected this book to be mostly about how later leaders applied the lessons of Lincoln to their own plans for peacebuilding ("waging the peace," as Avlon phrases). It was actually 80% a day-by-day recounting of Lincoln's last months with an emphasis on his plans for Reconstruction and the clues of his personal character. Despite that disappointment, many of the stories about Lincoln's closing time are ones I hadn't heard before. To spend a few hours a week in study of "the kindest of the great men, and the greatest of the kind men" was spiritually renewing and, I want to believe, made me a better person hanging out with such a one as this.
Liberal quotations from Lincoln's own capable writings and Avlon's readable turns of phrase left me pleased with the use of language in the book.
While I had hoped for more chapters focused on the 20th and 21st centuries, I was unexpectedly renewed by the deep immersion in some of the best traits of one of the best people to have wielded power on this planet. Five stars and highly recommend even to folks who might not be Civil War buffs as a character study of how to manage conflict.
I expected this book to be mostly about how later leaders applied the lessons of Lincoln to their own plans for peacebuilding ("waging the peace," as Avlon phrases). It was actually 80% a day-by-day recounting of Lincoln's last months with an emphasis on his plans for Reconstruction and the clues of his personal character. Despite that disappointment, many of the stories about Lincoln's closing time are ones I hadn't heard before. To spend a few hours a week in study of "the kindest of the great men, and the greatest of the kind men" was spiritually renewing and, I want to believe, made me a better person hanging out with such a one as this.
Liberal quotations from Lincoln's own capable writings and Avlon's readable turns of phrase left me pleased with the use of language in the book.
While I had hoped for more chapters focused on the 20th and 21st centuries, I was unexpectedly renewed by the deep immersion in some of the best traits of one of the best people to have wielded power on this planet. Five stars and highly recommend even to folks who might not be Civil War buffs as a character study of how to manage conflict.
March 6, 2022
I heard the author interviewed on a podcast, and decided to break from my usual habit of reading fiction. I enjoy learning about history, especially from an unexplored perspective. Lincoln never got the chance to be a peace-time President, but his approach to victory was later followed by the American victors in Germany and Japan 80 years later. I found this connection to be an insightful recognition of Lincoln's legacy. This book was obviously well-researched and there seems to be no end to learning about Lincoln. The author admits to his almost mythic qualities, but what Lincoln said and did is all well-documented! Perhaps our worship of him as a leader is deserved.
This book didn't disappoint, but I think I may have enjoyed it more in an audio format. I get most of my political and historical information from podcasts, and I think that is a habit I won't break in the future. But I am glad that I took the time to read this book.
This book didn't disappoint, but I think I may have enjoyed it more in an audio format. I get most of my political and historical information from podcasts, and I think that is a habit I won't break in the future. But I am glad that I took the time to read this book.
August 7, 2023
This book is one to reference time and again, after reading it all. It really showcased the struggles that Lincoln faced during his time as president. He truly embodies a reconciling leader who demonstrates compassion and determination. Keeping his goal set to have peace, with equality for others, was such a force he had to take on during his time leading this country. I loved how he shared how peace can never truly be achieved if both sides are not kind toward others. Making resolutions when hate is present will only lead to division later down the road. His mission to have the South see peace as the only way, on their own, but with his goal, was powerful. Truly amazing life and how he is revered around the world is remarkable. There are definitely statements from this book that are relatable and beneficial to keep in mind with today’s political issues. Highly recommend this!
August 27, 2023
One of the most readable non-fiction/history books I've read. Lincoln comes alive in these pages. We se not only his humanity, but how his contemporaries - including his foes - thought him a man of truth, honesty, love and compassion.
Lincoln visited injured Confederate soldiers. Years later, a former colonel recalled: “Looking him in the face, as he stood with extended hand: Mr. President, I said, ‘do you know to whom you offer your hand?� ‘I do not,� he replied. Well, I said, you offer it to a Confederate colonel, who has fought you as hard as he could for four years. ‘Well,� said he, ‘I hope a Confederate colonel will not refuse me his hand.� No, sir, I replied, I will not, and I clasped his hand in both mine. I tell you, sir, he had the most magnificent face and eye that I have ever gazed into. He had me whipped from the time he first opened his mouth.�
Lincoln visited injured Confederate soldiers. Years later, a former colonel recalled: “Looking him in the face, as he stood with extended hand: Mr. President, I said, ‘do you know to whom you offer your hand?� ‘I do not,� he replied. Well, I said, you offer it to a Confederate colonel, who has fought you as hard as he could for four years. ‘Well,� said he, ‘I hope a Confederate colonel will not refuse me his hand.� No, sir, I replied, I will not, and I clasped his hand in both mine. I tell you, sir, he had the most magnificent face and eye that I have ever gazed into. He had me whipped from the time he first opened his mouth.�
July 19, 2022
As Avlon notes, there is a good-sized library full of Lincoln books. Did the world need another?
Yes, as it turns out. Avlon paints a vivid portrait of what the world would have looked like if Lincoln had lived to oversee the peace. Spoiler Alert: VERY different. And he unpacks enough of Lincoln's world view and thinking about the post-war period to allow a vivid description of what might have happened.
Best of all, Avlon ties Lincoln's vision to the way in which the Americans supervised the peace the next time they had achieved total and unconditional surrender of their enemy: in Germany and Japan in 1945. In both cases, Lincoln's vision was a success.
There are many lessons for the modern world in here, and this book does a great job of making Lincoln relevant to today.
Yes, as it turns out. Avlon paints a vivid portrait of what the world would have looked like if Lincoln had lived to oversee the peace. Spoiler Alert: VERY different. And he unpacks enough of Lincoln's world view and thinking about the post-war period to allow a vivid description of what might have happened.
Best of all, Avlon ties Lincoln's vision to the way in which the Americans supervised the peace the next time they had achieved total and unconditional surrender of their enemy: in Germany and Japan in 1945. In both cases, Lincoln's vision was a success.
There are many lessons for the modern world in here, and this book does a great job of making Lincoln relevant to today.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
Can't find what you're looking for?
Get help and learn more about the design.