Abraham Lincoln: A Life 1862

Publishers Weekly describes this book as "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 also notes, "The book need not be heard in one sitting. Each part stands alone." Now Gildan Media brings to you, chapter by chapter, what Doris Kearns Goodwin calls a "...profound and masterful portrait."

"I Expect to Maintain This Contest Until Successful, or Till I Die, or Am Conquered, or My Term Expires, or Congress or the Country Forsakes Me": From the Slough of Despond to the Gates of Richmond: (January-July 1862): Cameron is replaced by Stanton. The president begins to supervise the army and take charge of his administration.

"The Hour Comes for Dealing with Slavery": Playing the Last Trump Card: (January-July 1862): Lincoln puts forward his proposal of gradual emancipation with monetary grants to participating states. Many criticize the plan as too expensive. The president proceeds to emancipate the District of Columbia.

"Would You Prosecute the War with Elder-Stalk Squirts, Charged with Rose Water?" The Soft War Turns Hard: (July-September 1862): Lincoln carries out a strategy to replace the social system of the South. McClellan's failures lead to him being replaced by General Henry Halleck. The army of Potomac is withdrawn to a new location. The Second Battle of Bull Run turns into a devastating loss for the Union.

"I Am Not a Bold Man, But I Have the Knack of Sticking to My Promises!": The Emancipation Proclamation: (September-December 1862): Lincoln's announcement about the coming Emancipation Proclamation has severe Electoral backlash. Lincoln visits the Army of the Potomac in an effort to drive it to action. McClellan's hesitance dries up the last of Lincoln's patience. The president again urges Congress to adopt a gradual compensated emancipation.