The chapter delves into Abraham Lincoln's belief in a constitutional majority based on the people's consent to government, contrasting it with concepts like nullification and secession. The discussion emphasizes the importance of persuasion and nonviolent means in a democratic system, highlighting Lincoln's commitment to law and the union during times of political turmoil. It also examines Lincoln's justification for actions like the Emancipation Proclamation, showcasing his transparency and respect for democratic principles in the face of accusations of tyranny.
What lessons can we take from the speeches of Abraham Lincoln for today's turbulent times? How did those speeches move the nation in Lincoln's day? Listen as political scientist Diana Schaub of Loyola University, Maryland talks with EconTalk's Russ Roberts about three of Lincoln's most important speeches and what they can tell us about the United States then and now.