"Biographies in general are more often the reflection of the passions and prejudices of the biographers than a revelation of the truth concerning the subject."

Numerous biographies have been written about President Abraham Lincoln, most of which have highlighted his successes and virtues. Those works mythologized the man while leaving some facets of his personal history and presidential tenure to be lost to history. Much of what has been written about Lincoln has been exaggerated to eulogize him as he was given an increasingly oversized place in the minds of many Americans.

If you want a fresh, unbiased examination of America's 16th President, The Deification of Lincoln by Ira D. Cardiff is the perfect resource. Cardiff presents oft-neglected truths for a more holistic picture. For example, he examines how the Civil War was won not by just Lincoln's tenacity and dedication to the cause. Cardiff also sheds light on how the end of slavery was brought about by much more than Lincoln's actions. None of these revelations are intended to discredit Lincoln but to gain a more realistic understanding for him and his role in history. This text sets him properly within the historical context.