Held in the Springfield, Illinois downtown area, this program utilizes several of historic sites, primarily the Lincoln Library and Museum. Lodging is in one of the hotels conveniently located near Lincoln Park within walking distance of the main landmarks. Lincoln’s evolution as a leader is the focus of this program, from his initial campaigning for a state congressional seat to the end of his presidency of the United States.
Generally accepted as the iconic figure of the presidency of the United States, Abraham Lincoln’s impact on the history of democracy is readily apparent. The qualities and competencies that made this so are examined in a series of case studies related to defining moments in Lincoln’s career. His confrontation as a congressman with then President Polk over the infamous “Spot Resolutions,” his stand on slavery and the “House Divided” speech as a US Senator, his head-on assault of the impending secession of Southern states, the issuance of the Emancipation Proclamation, and his formation of his first Cabinet as President are captured as the pivotal events that mark Lincoln’s legacy as a leader for freedom and the institution of democracy worldwide.
