Profiles the man whose presidency was filled with turmoil from the Civil War, and whose life was tragically cut short by an assassin a few days after the end of the war.

Self-taught president-- Boy in the backwoods -- On his own in New Salem -- Young politician -- Springfield romance -- Mr. Lincoln goes to congress -- Illinois lawyer -- Great slavery debates -- Run for the presidency -- Untried president -- Trial by fire -- End of a great era -- Glossary -- Bibliography -- About the author -- Image credits -- Index.