In A Just and Generous Nation; the eminent historian Harold Holzer and the noted economist Norton Garfinkle present a groundbreaking new account of the beliefs that inspired our sixteenth president to go to war when the Southern states seceded from the Union. Rather than a commitment to eradicating slavery or a defense of the Union; they argue; Lincoln's guiding principle was the defense of equal economic opportunity.Lincoln firmly believed that the government's primary role was to ensure that all Americans had the opportunity to better their station in life. As president; he worked tirelessly to enshrine this ideal within the federal government. He funded railroads and canals; supported education; and; most importantly; issued the Emancipation Proclamation; which opened the door for former slaves to join white Americans in striving for self-improvement. In our own age of unprecedented inequality; A Just and Generous Nation reestablishes Lincoln's legacy as the protector not just of personal freedom but of the American dream itself.
#336521 in Books Svetlana Boym 2002-03-28Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 9.00 x 1.00 x 6.00l; 1.15 #File Name: 0465007082432 pagesFuture of Nostalgia
Review
3 of 3 people found the following review helpful. Wonderfully perceptiveBy Debra JacobThis is one of the best books I've read in a long time -- fiction or nonfiction. Boym is quite perceptive about the immigrant mindset; expectations; and associated nostalgia. Unfortunately; she died only a few months ago. Her obit in the New York Times provides a nice overview; in case you are not familiar with her work.11 of 12 people found the following review helpful. I Miss Nostalgia and Now I Know Why!By Norman LipsonOne of the most fascinatingly themed books I have read in many years; but once it moved from its major theme; Nostalgia; to the second half of the book; her excruciatingly detailed narratives of the internal issues within Russian cities;quickly became very tedious and boring to a non-Russian.In reality; Nostalgia is two separate books and each could well stand on its own.1 of 2 people found the following review helpful. Four StarsBy Stanley E.Good book
