The Tom Woods Show
Ep. 2589 Axis of Evil: America's Three Worst Presidents
Jan 4, 2025
Tom DiLorenzo, president of the Mises Institute and expert on American history, dives deep into the controversial legacies of Abraham Lincoln, Woodrow Wilson, and Franklin D. Roosevelt. He challenges the traditional views of Lincoln as a freedom champion, revealing a more despotic side to his presidency. The discussion also critiques Wilson's and Roosevelt's policies, arguing that they worsened economic struggles rather than alleviating them. DiLorenzo emphasizes the importance of understanding presidential biases and advocating for individual rights throughout American history.
41:12
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Quick takeaways
- Lincoln's legacy warrants reevaluation, as his actions often contradicted the narrative of emancipation and freedom touted by historians.
- Wilson's presidency illustrates the dangers of expanding government power during wartime, significantly impacting civil liberties and state rights.
Deep dives
Lincoln's Complex Legacy
Abraham Lincoln's legacy is often viewed through a lens of reverence, but it is essential to re-evaluate this perspective. Contrary to popular belief, Lincoln sold slaves inherited from his wife’s family while Robert E. Lee freed the slaves he inherited. The Emancipation Proclamation, widely celebrated as a turning point towards freedom, actually exempted many slaves and was perceived by ex-slaves as ineffective. Furthermore, Lincoln's inaugural address promised to protect slavery, undermining the claim that the Civil War was waged to end slavery.
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