Wednesday, February 11, 2009

Why Lincoln Matters

The Jan. 30th/Feb 1st USA Weekend Magazine had a list of seven reasons why Abraham Lincoln still matters according to historian Michael Beschloss. He had some interesting things to say.

1. SCHOLARS AND PUBLIC RECOGNIZE HIM AS THE BEST PRESIDENT

Both groups consistently rank him at the top.

2. HE REPRESENTS THE BEST OF THE AMERICAN DREAM

You can grow up to be president as well. He was definitely not of gentry. He lost his mother art an early age and only had a little formal education, but rose to be a successful lawyer, and then, you know.

3. HIS CHARACTER HELD STRONG

He made it to the top without lying or cheating and was almost always kind, even to his enemies and maintained his sense of humor.

4. HE HELPED PIONEER MODERN RACE RELATIONS

Even though some say he didn't push it far enough, he certainly gave blacks a much-better chance of equality.

5. HE REMAINS A POP CULTURE FAVORITE

He is on commercials, his name on cars, toys, companies, schools, "Land of Lincoln" in Illinois, and, of course, his birthday.

6. HIS LIFE STORY STILL CONTAINS MANY MYSTERIES

His marriage, what if he hadn't been at Ford's Theater that night.

7. HE UNDERSTOOD THE POWER OF WORDS

He could tell a story and write a speech. How do you write a better one than the Gettysburg Address?

A Remarkable Man. --Cooter

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