The Gist All The President's Thighs
Nov 26, 2024
Shaun Peterson, director of the documentary on Abraham Lincoln's lesser-known personal history, joins historian Tom Balcerski to explore Lincoln's intimate relationships, particularly with Joshua Speed. They debate the evidence suggesting Lincoln's sexuality and the historical significance behind it. The discussion touches on military ethics in conflicts like those in Gaza and Lebanon, alongside the importance of discerning credible information amid today's misinformation crisis.
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Disparity in Casualties
- The disparity in civilian casualties between Gaza and Lebanon during the conflict stems from Hamas's tactics.
- Hamas intentionally used civilian suffering to manipulate public opinion against Israel.
Lincoln's Close Relationships
- Abraham Lincoln shared a bed with Joshua Speed and wrote him effusive letters.
- He also had a close bond with his bodyguard, mourning him more deeply than his own son.
Origin of the Documentary
- Sean Peterson's interest in Lincoln's sexuality began with a Gore Vidal article and Clarence Tripp's book.
- Tripp reinterpreted existing evidence about Lincoln through a queer lens.