Team of Rivals by Doris Kearns Goodwin

This biography of Lincoln the covers the start of his quest for the presidency until his assassination, chronicles his relationship with the men who made up his Cabinet. Most of these politicians ran against him during the 1960 Republican Convention. Lincoln recognized that all were able men and patriots who would benefit his administration during the most challenging point in the nation’s short history. Goodwin’s expertise as an historian and a writer are clear in this well-researched work. The reader glimpses the thoughts and emotions of Seward, Stanton, Chase and others as they work with Lincoln to maintain the Union. The genius of the president in choosing leaders of differing opinions and positions provided the strength needed during perilous times.