Lincoln and His World : Volume 3, The Rise to National Prominence, 1843-1853

Based on deep consultation of seldom-examined primary sources, this third volume in Richard Lawrence Miller''s massive Lincoln biography follows Lincoln''s long effort to win a seat in Congress, his activity there, and his return to Illinois--chastened by his Washington experience. Topics include: Lincoln''s anti-slavery efforts in Congress; the popularity of his stance against the Mexican War (which, contrary to common belief, didn''t significantly harm his political reputation); his support of Zachary Taylor''s presidential campaign and his subsequent efforts to win a patronage job from the Taylor White House; his political activities after returning to Illinois; and his generally happy home life with Mary and his sons. Throughout the work, a new portrait emerges of Lincoln as a canny politician, making his own luck by striking swiftly and strongly when opportunities arose.