'Lincoln, The Lawyer' Summary

Frederick Trevor Hill's book Lincoln, The Lawyer is a fascinating and insightful look at the legal career of Abraham Lincoln, one of the most revered presidents in American history. Hill draws on extensive research and analysis to paint a vivid portrait of Lincoln as a lawyer, from his early days as a circuit rider in Illinois to his rise as a prominent attorney in Springfield and his eventual election as the 16th President of the United States.

Lincoln was born in Kentucky in 1809 and moved to Illinois in 1830. He began his legal career in 1836, riding the circuit to represent clients in small towns throughout the state. Lincoln quickly gained a reputation as a skilled and persuasive advocate. He was known for his keen intellect, his deep understanding of the law, and his ability to connect with juries.

In 1842, Lincoln moved to Springfield, Illinois, where he established a successful law practice. He represented clients in a wide range of cases, including patent suits, land disputes, and criminal trials. Lincoln was also involved in several high-profile cases, such as the Alton Trials, in which he defended abolitionists who had been charged with helping enslaved people escape to freedom.

One of Lincoln's most important legal cases was the McCormick Reaper case. In 1850, Cyrus McCormick, the inventor of the McCormick Reaper, sued John Deere for patent infringement. Lincoln represented McCormick and won the case, which established McCormick's patent on the reaper. The reaper was a revolutionary invention that revolutionized agriculture in the United States. Lincoln's victory in the McCormick Reaper case helped to make him one of the most prominent attorneys in the country.

Lincoln's legal career came to an end in 1860 when he was elected president of the United States. However, his experience as a lawyer had a profound impact on his presidency. Lincoln's deep understanding of the law and his commitment to justice guided him in his decisions as president.

Hill's book provides a valuable and informative look at Lincoln's legal career. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the life and legacy of one of America's most iconic figures.

Essence and Spirit of the Book

Hill's book is more than just a biography of Lincoln's legal career. It is also a meditation on the nature of law and justice. Hill argues that Lincoln was a visionary lawyer who was committed to using the law to promote equality and justice for all.

Hill writes:

Lincoln's legal career was a lifelong struggle for justice. He believed that the law should be used to protect the rights of all people, regardless of race, class, or gender. He also believed that the law should be used to promote social justice and to create a more equitable society.

Hill's book is a reminder that the law is not just a set of abstract rules and regulations. It is a powerful tool that can be used to shape society and to promote justice. Lincoln's legacy as a lawyer is a testament to the power of the law to make a difference in the world.

Conclusion

Frederick Trevor Hill's book Lincoln, The Lawyer is a fascinating and insightful look at the legal career of one of America's most revered presidents. Hill's book is more than just a biography. It is also a meditation on the nature of law and justice. Lincoln's legacy as a lawyer is a reminder that the law is a powerful tool that can be used to shape society and to promote justice.