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Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln

Nonfiction | Biography | Adult | Published in 2005

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Doris Kearns Goodwin

Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln

Nonfiction | Biography | Adult | Published in 2005
Book Details
Pages

945

Format

Biography • Nonfiction

Setting

United States • 1860s

Publication Year

2005

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln by Doris Kearns Goodwin details Abraham Lincoln's ascent to the presidency in 1860, his strategic inclusion of key competitors into his cabinet, and his leadership during the Civil War, culminating in the Union's victory and the abolition of slavery through the 13th Amendment. The book covers themes of political strategy, leadership, and the complexities of 19th-century American politics.

Informative

Inspirational

Contemplative

Emotional

Hopeful

Reviews & Readership

4.5

199,176 ratings

83%

Loved it

10%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Doris Kearns Goodwin's Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln is widely acclaimed for its in-depth portrayal of Lincoln's leadership and his ability to unify a divided cabinet. Readers appreciate the richly detailed narrative and insightful analysis. Some critics, however, find the pacing slow and the focus sometimes scattered. Overall, it is celebrated as a significant scholarly work on Lincoln.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln?

A reader who enjoys Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln by Doris Kearns Goodwin likely has an interest in American history, particularly the Civil War era and presidential leadership. Fans of 1776 by David McCullough or Lincoln by David Herbert Donald would find this book engaging due to its in-depth analysis and rich narrative style.

4.5

199,176 ratings

83%

Loved it

10%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

Character List

Abraham Lincoln

The 16th president of the United States, who led the nation through the Civil War and worked to end slavery through the Emancipation Proclamation and the 13th Amendment.

A prominent politician and Lincoln's Secretary of State, known for his diplomatic skills in preventing European intervention in the Civil War.

A political figure who served as Lincoln’s Secretary of the Treasury and later as Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, known for his ambition to become president.

Attorney General under Lincoln, who played a role in the administration despite differing views on certain policies like emancipation.

A political figure with Southern ties who helped maintain Maryland's allegiance to the Union during the Civil War.

A Union Army general known for his cautious command and later as Lincoln's opponent in the 1864 presidential election.

A Union general whose military leadership led to key victories and who later became the 18th president of the United States.

A Confederate general recognized for his strategic acumen in early victories against Union forces.

A Democratic senator and Lincoln’s political rival, known for his debates with Lincoln and support of popular sovereignty.

An influential abolitionist and former slave who initially criticized Lincoln but later supported him as a key figure in the abolition of slavery.

A political strategist and ally of William Seward, who worked to influence Republican policies during Lincoln's presidency.

The publisher of The New York Tribune and a vigorous political commentator, who played an influential role in the Republican Party.

Abraham Lincoln's wife, known for her social and extravagant lifestyle as well as personal struggles during her time in the White House.

Lincoln’s Secretary of the Navy, who played a crucial role in managing naval operations during the Civil War.

Lincoln's Secretary of War, recognized for his effective management of Union forces and crucial role in the administration.

An actor and Confederate sympathizer who assassinated Abraham Lincoln at Ford’s Theatre.

Book Details
Pages

945

Format

Biography • Nonfiction

Setting

United States • 1860s

Publication Year

2005

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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