Differ We Must: How Lincoln Succeeded in a Divided America
Exploring Abraham Lincoln’s political savvy in a nation torn by slavery, this nuanced narrative delves into Lincoln’s strategy as a great politician amid division, offering insights for our turbulent present. In 1855, Lincoln, a lawyer, penned a note to his friend, admonishing him for not opposing slavery but expressing a commitment to enduring differences. In "Differ We Must," Steve Inskeep examines sixteen encounters from Lincoln’s life, each with someone who held differing views. As a consummate politician, Lincoln engaged with adversaries, learning to make his beliefs actionable. Inskeep, host of NPR’s "Morning Edition," skillfully weaves a narrative that sheds light on Lincoln’s ability to prioritize, using banter, humor, and storytelling to navigate a fractured political landscape. In doing so, he became the Lincoln we know—leading a social revolution by engaging with those who disagreed with him. With rich detail and insightful commentary, Inskeep expands our understanding of a leader who maintained his moral compass while uniting a divided nation.