Lincoln | The Making of a President | Documentary Series

Part 1 explores Abraham Lincoln's early life, covering his origins in Kentucky and Indiana, his entry into politics, and his presidency amidst challenges like assassination threats and the Civil War. It also touches on Lincoln's personal struggles, including romantic hardships and financial strains, showcasing his growth as a leader navigating a divided nation. The four-part documentary series 'Lincoln' originally airing on ABC in 1992, is a visually captivating portrayal of the revered president that draws from the Meserve-Kunhardt Collection, a treasure trove of Civil War-era photography. With a score by Alan Menken, it features an all-star cast of voices, including James Earl Jones, Jason Robards, and Glenn Close. Subscribe for access to interviews, series, films, and educational materials that address issues of social justice, history, politics, the arts, and culture by spotlighting relatable human stories of purpose and meaning. Learn about our work and how to support our mission here: https://www.lifestories.org/. For extended versions of these interviews and more, visit: https://www.youtube.com/@lifestoriesinterviewarchive Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifestoriesinterviews/ Chapter Markers: 00:00:00 – Introduction 00:04:59 – The Presidential Election of 1860 00:06:41 – Lincoln’s life in Springfield, Illinois 00:09:40 – Lincoln’s departure for Washington and threats of assassination 00:15:02 – Lincoln’s inauguration 00:16:59 – The attack of Fort Sumter 00:18:54 – The beginning of the civil war 00:19:09 – Lincoln’s response to the Civil War and call for volunteers 00:20:58 – Lincoln returns to work at the white house 00:21:25 – Conflict in Lincoln’s cabinet and challenges to his presidency 00:22:47 – Reflections on Lincoln’s character and leadership style 00:23:58 – Lincoln’s early life, childhood and family history in Kentucky 00:27:38 – Lincoln moves to Macon County, Illinois at 21 00:28:41 – Lincoln’s political career begins in New Salem 00:29:38 – Lincoln’s life in Springfield at 28 00:30:00 – Lincoln’s love life, engagement and depression 00:33:05 – Lincoln’s marriage to Mary Todd 00:34:36 – Lincoln’s family life with Mary Todd 00:36:15 – The battle of bull run 00:38:55 – Corruption and chaos in Lincoln’s cabinet 00:39:24 – Reflections on Lincoln’s relationship to power 00:40:43 – Mary Lincoln’s spending habits 00:42:58 – General McClellan’s grand army retreats inside for the winter 00:43:45 – Lincoln’s sons William and Thomas 00:45:06 – Willie Lincoln’s illness 00:46:27 – Willie Lincoln’s death 00:48:16 – Mary Lincoln is accused of being a rebel sympathizer 00:49:16 – Lincoln takes command of the war 00:50:03 – Lincoln’s dispute with cabinet advisers 00:51:11 – Lincoln’s evolution into strong leadership © Kunhardt Film Foundation. All Rights Reserved. #TheMakingofaPresident #lifestories