Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln

Kearns Goodwin’s historiography reveals how politicians are forced to position themselves in relation to both their political rivals and the public in order to achieve their own personal goals and manage the affairs of the nation.

Her account of Lincoln and his peers show the masterful way in which a figure like Lincoln was able to handle a broad spectrum of egos and personalities in order to run the country during arguably its most turbulent historical period. By showcasing how Lincoln was able to put the public interest above his own, she deftly contrasts him with some of his political rivals, such as men like Salmon P. Chase, who were incapable of understanding how they might simultaneously further their own cause without alienating those around them.

In discussing Lincoln’s political acuity, Kearns Goodwin shows how he grew in the esteem of his colleagues, some of whom at first viewed him as lackluster and second-tier. Lincoln’s empathy, his storytelling ability, and his skill at connecting with both the common man and the educated classes highlight his skill as a politician.

By assembling a “team of rivals,” all of whom would have gladly taken Lincoln’s position, Lincoln exhibited not only grace and skill but political savvy in allowing powerful, influential, and ambitious men to believe that they were making direct and important contributions to the affairs of the country.