The House of Lincoln

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Nancy Horan, author of the bestselling Loving Frank, presents an insightful narrative that chronicles Abraham Lincoln's journey from a humble lawyer to U.S. President and Great Emancipator, while framing Lincoln's Midwestern home as a vital backdrop to the Civil War. Rich in historical detail, the story unfolds through the eyes of a young immigrant, Ana Ferreira, who arrives in Springfield, Illinois, from Madeira, Portugal. At just fourteen, Ana is hired to assist Mary Lincoln with her children and social duties, providing her a unique perspective on Lincoln's evolving views on equality and the Union. Ana witnesses the complexities of Mary Lincoln's character and the emotional struggles she endures as the wife of a prominent political figure. Alongside her close friend from the Black community, Ana confronts the racial prejudices faced daily, observing the workings of the Underground Railroad and the stark contradictions between slavery and the promise of freedom in her new country. The narrative culminates with a depiction of the lesser-known Springfield race riot of 1908, guiding readers through the significant historical changes that have shaped America and continue to resonate today.