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Abraham Lincoln is widely revered as one of America’s greatest presidents. He has been the subject of countless books that explore many aspect of his life, from his role in ending slavery to his wartime leadership, and even his personal relationships. A recent book examines Lincoln’s life in the context of the time in which he lived. It looks at how the culture of the day shaped Lincoln’s image and his approach to governing. Listen to hear a new perspective on Abe Lincoln, and learn how his approach to politics reflected the culture in which he rose to power.
Story Length: 7:16
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The abolition of slavery in the United States didn’t happen all at once. Vermont was the first state to abolish slavery, in 1777, and most Northern States followed suit. This meant that enslaved people that escaped could come North and rebuild their lives as free men and women. From the Underground Railroad, to even mailing yourself in a box, enslaved people found ways to escape their circumstances and come North. The 1850 Fugitive Slave Act changed all that. Why was this Act approved and what was its result? Listen to learn more about escaping slavery and the Fugitive Slave Act of 1850.
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In the Declaration of Independence Thomas Jefferson argued that “all men are created equal,” yet during his lifetime he owned over 600 men, women and children. Jefferson wasn’t the only Founding Father who owned slaves and supported slavery. How could men who believed in liberty also believe in slavery? This lesson explores this contradiction, as well as the lives of slaves who made Jefferson’s lifestyle possible.
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George Washington was the hero of the American Revolution with a victory at Yorktown in 1781. He could have used his victory to seize power, but he went home to Mount Vernon. In this audio story, the remarkable characteristics of George Washington are considered. He is a historic figure not only because he was a great general, statesman and politician, but also because he voluntarily gave up power. His action cemented the United States as a democracy, in which citizens, rather than absolute rulers, have the power to govern the nation. Listen to hear how Washington’s actions are analyzed and interpreted.
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For some, John Brown is a venerated historical figure. For others, he is divisive. His famous raid on Harpers Ferry, Virginia in 1859, meant to induce an enslaved people's rebellion, could be seen as both a righteous act in support of the liberation of enslaved people and as an act of domestic terrorism. No matter how one views Brown, it is indisputable that his raid was a major turning point as the nation drew closer to civil war. In this story, a journalist discusses Brown, going into great detail into the story of his raid and its historical legacy.
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