MICHAEL P. JOHNSON is a Professor of History at the Johns Hopkins University, USA.

'After reading through this volume, I am once again reminded of Lincoln's power as both a writer and a thinker. This is exactly what I want my students to understand and appreciate about his public life.' - Joan Waugh, University of California,USA 'The accompanying narrative is written beautifully. Undergraduates should have no problem following the development of Lincoln's career and thinking. The text shows Johnson's complete mastery of the Lincoln canon but is presented in a completely clear and easy-to-follow manner.' - Nicole Etcheson, Ball State University,USA 'This volume anchors Lincoln strongly in the moment and effectively shows the challenges that he faced as president.' - Elizabeth Nelson, University of Nevada,USA

• PART I: INTRODUCTION: ABRAHAM LINCOLN, WORDSMITH .- PART II: THE DOCUMENTS.- Becoming a Republican.- Leading the Republican Party.- From Secession to War.- Marching South.- Toward Emancipation.- A War for Freedom and Union.- Defending a New Birth of Freedom.- 'To Finish the Work We Are In'.