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76 pages 2 hours read

Jon Meacham

And There Was Light: Abraham Lincoln and the American Struggle

Nonfiction | Biography | Adult | Published in 2022

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

And There Was Light by Jon Meacham traces Abraham Lincoln's journey from his modest beginnings in Kentucky to his presidency and eventual assassination, detailing his moral and political evolution amidst the challenges of slavery, democracy, and the Civil War. The narrative highlights Lincoln's personal struggles and dedication to moral and spiritual growth as he navigated the turbulent political landscape of 19th-century America. The book documents a racism-dominated era with historical depictions of pervasive racist sentiments.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Jon Meacham's And There Was Light is praised for its meticulous research and compelling narrative, shedding new light on historical events. However, some readers feel it occasionally lacks depth in character analysis. Overall, it’s a well-crafted and insightful read, appealing to both history enthusiasts and general readers alike.

Who should read this

Who Should Read And There Was Light?

Readers who enjoy And There Was Light by Jon Meacham are typically history enthusiasts, particularly those interested in well-researched biographies and American history. They may also appreciate works like Ron Chernow's Alexander Hamilton and David McCullough's John Adams. This audience values depth, context, and narrative style in historical writing.

Book Details
Pages

1152

Format

Biography • Nonfiction

Setting

United States • Civil War

Theme
Publication Year

2022

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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