And There Was Light: Abraham Lincoln and the American Struggle

I am a big fan of both Meacham and Lincoln. I believe that “And There Was Light” is a truthful, unbiased nonfiction account of American history that deserves five stars. Abraham Lincoln guided our nation through its most perilous times. I read the hardback version and it worked well with my reading glasses. The story flowed smoothly from start to finish and was a very good read. I think this book should be part of every high school history/civics curriculum with a student evaluation prior to graduation.To be clear, Abraham Lincoln’s vision was the union without slavery. His was the just and honorable cause to align our values with those described in the Declaration of Independence – all men are created equal with the very basic human rights of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. This cause was patriotic and defined America. His goal was accomplished but only after the American Civil War claimed an estimated 750,000 combatants. In retrospect and very simply stated, the confederate cause was unjust, dishonorable, unpatriotic and morally offensive. The just cause prevailed and the union was restored. However, the confederates chose to replace slavery with white supremacy and segregation. White supremacy was, is and always will be domestic terrorism in political, social and economic terms and strategies. Even today, it also often delivers both overt/covert discrimination, harassment and physical violence. It is unamerican and not patriotic.As Meacham wraps up his book, Lincoln is described as having had the following leadership qualities: “absolute truth, stern resolution, clear insight, solemn faithfulness, courage that cannot be daunted and hopefulness that cannot be dashed.” I would only add that Abraham Lincoln was a unique, tireless, selfless servant to our nation, its laws and We the People. He gave the last full measure and we all (past, present and future citizens) should be eternally grateful for his sacrifice. To sound the clarion call in 2023, there is a sizeable minority amongst us and in our government bodies. This modern day white supremist, right wing conservative movement is neither patriotic nor American. It was clearly on display at our nation’s Capital on January 6th. It is the essence of pure evil. It is a clear and present danger and there is no Lincoln like American hero/leader to get our democratic republic experiment back on track to shine the light of hope and liberty across the world.Footnote:My family and I were finally notified to appear before the U.S. District Court of the Eastern District of North Carolina in Fayetteville, NC on 11/30/1966. This to be the final task to obtain our US citizenship. It had taken 2 years and some money to get to this point. The presiding judge was Samuel A. Howard. We appeared before him separately. His duty was to evaluate our ability to speak and comprehend English. His question to me: “Who was Abraham Lincoln?” My response was: “Abraham Lincoln was the President of the United States who freed the slaves.” His response: “No, that is not correct. Abraham Lincoln saved the union.” My response: “Why yes, he did but he also freed the slaves. Was I now disqualified for citizenship?” He replied: "No, you are not disqualified." Later that day, he administered the oath and we became US citizens. That is one pursuit that I have never regretted.

From the outset, it's clear that Mitchun has a deep and abiding reverence for Abraham Lincoln, and this comes through in the meticulous research and attention to detail that he brings to his subject. The book is a comprehensive examination of Lincoln's life, from his humble beginnings to his rise to the presidency and the ultimate sacrifice he made for his country.What sets "And There Was Light" apart from other works on Lincoln is the way that Mitchun situates the president within the larger context of American history. Mitchun deftly weaves in discussions of the Civil War, the abolitionist movement, and other key events and figures of the time, showing how Lincoln's actions and decisions were shaped by the complex political and social landscape of the era.Despite its length and scholarly tone, "And There Was Light" is an accessible and engaging work that will appeal to both casual readers and serious students of history. The writing is clear and compelling, and Mitchun's passion for his subject shines through on every page.Overall, "And There Was Light" is a masterful work of historical scholarship that provides a rich and nuanced portrait of Abraham Lincoln and the world in which he lived. It's a must-read for anyone interested in American history or the life of one of its most iconic figures.

I've read half a dozen excellent books about Lincoln and this is one of the best. It is beautifully written and puts Lincoln and his challenges into context. Highly recommended.

An okay book.David Herbert Donald Lincoln was better.it expressed the times more clearly ,while Meacham book had a great emphasis on the slavery issue.an issue of the times but over emphasized in this book, in my opinion.i felt i really lived those times and knew Lincoln by Donald's book.meachem's was adaquit and was a good historical narrative but didn't do that for me. I do recommend it to those that want to learn about slavery and the vast array of opinions on it of those times.and the coming up of Lincoln whome later abolished that cruel institution as president.

This was a Book Club choice. I would not have chosen it on my own but I am so glad I read it! I learned much more about Lincoln and the time he lived than I learned in any class I have taken. It was very moving and insightful.

Amazing read depicting an imperative time in history .

Well written and great depth of historic research. Recommend this book to all people with any interest in the facts of this time, the issues of this time, and in Lincoln himself. Very appropriate research and explanation timely in the modern era.

Can never get enough of quality reading about Lincoln, and this book is definitely quality, and an excellent read.

For those loosing faith in the moral purpose of America, Meacham’s biography of Lincoln reminds us of the best of the American heritage. Few world leaders can come close to inspiring us in the way that the Lincoln story does. It leads us to ask who follows in that tradition today and who would leave Lincoln shaking his head in sorrow and disgust?The way forward is always informed by reference to the best of our past.

In this world of chaos and confusion abraham lincoln's memory does shed light. As the first citizen of the United States and its consistently greatest president he was tough but human and had a cause greater than himself which is what historian jon meacham brought out beautifully. A really good read for people who wish to expand their horizons and understand deeper matters.

Received book thought it would be new but had inscription inside and glue on cover from label .

This is a very nteresting biography. It is different than many, it analyzes Lincoln’s inner thoughts and moral judgments.

Majestic writing, this book is a magnificent presentation of this great man!Everyone who can please read this work.