The Real Lincoln By Thomas J. DiLorenzo

Paperback, Used. The Real Lincoln: A New Look at Abraham Lincoln, His Agenda, and an Unnecessary War by Thomas J. DiLorenzo is a controversial historical analysis that challenges the traditional heroic image of Abraham Lincoln. Summary DiLorenzo argues that Lincoln’s primary goal was not to end slavery, but to expand the power of the federal government and implement a centralized economic system that favored Northern industrial and financial interests. The author claims that Lincoln used the Civil War to consolidate political control over the states, destroy the principle of state sovereignty, and transform the United States from a voluntary union into a coercive, centralized nation-state. Key points include: Economic motives: Lincoln supported high tariffs, national banking, and infrastructure subsidies—the "American System"—which benefited Northern elites but hurt the South. States’ rights: The South’s secession, according to DiLorenzo, was more about resisting economic domination and protecting constitutional self-government than preserving slavery. Civil liberties: Lincoln is criticized for suspending habeas corpus, censoring the press, and jailing political opponents—actions DiLorenzo portrays as unconstitutional overreach. Slavery and emancipation: The book argues that Lincoln’s opposition to slavery was pragmatic, not moral—pointing out that he initially sought only to prevent its expansion, not abolish it outright, and supported colonization schemes to relocate freed slaves. Ultimately, The Real Lincoln presents Lincoln as a shrewd political operator who used the Civil War to reshape America into a powerful, centralized nation under strong federal authority—contradicting the decentralized vision of the Founding Fathers.

Condition

Used (normal wear)