The audience detects a shift in Lincoln’s aim as 1862 comes to a close. Turning from his sole focus of preserving the Union, Lincoln opens 1863 dedicated to freeing the slaves. Lincoln signs the Emancipation Proclamation, writes a famous letter to John C. Conkling, issues the Thanksgiving Proclamation, and gives the Gettysburg Address. A remarkable year!

The audience focuses on the last fourteen months of Abraham Lincoln’s presidency, beginning with the appointment of Lt. General Grant as the overall commander of the Union army. Victories by Generals Sherman and Sheridan propel Lincoln to a successful presidential re-election. Lincoln plays a behind-the-scenes role in getting Congress to approve the 13th Amendment, abolishing slavery. Lincoln’s wish that the country would be restored and united with “a benevolent goodwill to all” is immortalized in his Second Inaugural Address.

The length of any performance can range between 45 to 75 minutes, and can be tailored to themes & pieces of literature of interest (see selection list at bottom of page).

Possible themes of a performance could be:

(1) the turbulent years of his national importance (1858 – 1865)
(2) troubles and trials with Union army generals
(3) slavery and emancipation (1850 – 1863)
(4) connecting the Declaration of Independence and the Gettysburg Address