From a master historian, the story of Lincoln's�and the nation's�transformation through the crucible of slavery and emancipation. No other contemporary historian has had a greater impact on how scholars and the general public think about our past than Eric Foner. In a landmark work of deep scholarship and insight, Foner gives us a life of Lincoln as it intertwined with slavery, the defining issue of the time and the tragic hallmark of American history. As the nation expanded into new western territories and economic pursuits, the continuing strength of slavery spawned a new and divisive politics. Lincoln navigated this dynamic political landscape deftly, moving in measured steps, often on a path forged by abolitionists and radicals in his party. Lincoln's personal and political journey led him finally to embrace what he called the Civil War's "astounding" result-the immediate, uncompensated abolition of slavery-and recognition of blacks as American citizens. Foner's Lincoln is a leader whose greatness lay in his capacity for moral and political growth. 16 pages black-and-white illustrations and 3 maps