Obama, Lincoln, and Gay Rights

The Atlantic
July 2, 2009
Sean Wilentz's criticism of several books on Lincoln--and his general objection to the "two Lincolns" narrative that rejects the fact that Lincoln was anti-slavery to begin with, may offer some insight into President Obama's perplexing stances on gay rights. Lincoln made a number of statements, that, viewed out of context, would cause us to question his commitment to ending slavery. It's possible, indeed probable, that Obama's slow progress on gay rights may be the kind of political maneuvering Lincoln displayed prior to the Emancipation Proclaimation or the recruitment of black soldiers. [Link]