How Long to Read Lincoln in American Memory

How Long Does it Take to Read Lincoln in American Memory?

It takes the average reader 8 hours and 27 minutes to read Lincoln in American Memory by Merrill D. Peterson

Assuming a reading speed of 250 words per minute. Learn more

Description

Lincoln's death, like his life, was an event of epic proportions. When the president was struck down at his moment of triumph, writes Merrill Peterson, "sorrow--indescribable sorrow" swept the nation. After lying in state in Washington, Lincoln's body was carried by a special funeral train to Springfield, Illinois, stopping in major cities along the way; perhaps a million people viewed the remains as memorial orations rang out and the world chorused its sincere condolences. It was the apotheosis of the martyred President--the beginning of the transformation of a man into a mythic hero. In Lincoln in American Memory, historian Merrill Peterson provides a fascinating history of Lincoln's place in the American imagination from the hour of his death to the present. In tracing the changing image of Lincoln through time, this wide-ranging account offers insight into the evolution and struggles of American politics and society--and into the character of Lincoln himself. Westerners, Easterners, even Southerners were caught up in the idealization of the late President, reshaping his memory and laying claim to his mantle, as his widow, son, memorial builders, and memorabilia collectors fought over his visible legacy. Peterson also looks at the complex responses of blacks to the memory of Lincoln, as they moved from exultation at the end of slavery to the harsh reality of free life amid deep poverty and segregation; at more than one memorial event for the great emancipator, the author notes, blacks were excluded. He makes an engaging examination of the flood of reminiscences and biographies, from Lincoln's old law partner William H. Herndon to Carl Sandburg and beyond. Serious historians were late in coming to the topic; for decades the myth-makers sought to shape the image of the hero President to suit their own agendas. He was made a voice of prohibition, a saloon-keeper, an infidel, a devout Christian, the first Bull Moose Progressive, a military blunderer and (after the First World War) a military genius, a white supremacist (according to D.W. Griffith and other Southern admirers), and a touchstone for the civil rights movement. Through it all, Peterson traces five principal images of Lincoln: the savior of the Union, the great emancipator, man of the people, first American, and self-made man. In identifying these archetypes, he tells us much not only of Lincoln but of our own identity as a people.

How long is Lincoln in American Memory?

Lincoln in American Memory by Merrill D. Peterson is 496 pages long, and a total of 126,976 words.

This makes it 167% the length of the average book. It also has 155% more words than the average book.

How Long Does it Take to Read Lincoln in American Memory Aloud?

The average oral reading speed is 183 words per minute. This means it takes 11 hours and 33 minutes to read Lincoln in American Memory aloud.

What Reading Level is Lincoln in American Memory?

Lincoln in American Memory is suitable for students ages 12 and up.

Note that there may be other factors that effect this rating besides length that are not factored in on this page. This may include things like complex language or sensitive topics not suitable for students of certain ages.

When deciding what to show young students always use your best judgement and consult a professional.

Where Can I Buy Lincoln in American Memory?

Lincoln in American Memory by Merrill D. Peterson is sold by several retailers and bookshops. However, Read Time works with Amazon to provide an easier way to purchase books.

To buy Lincoln in American Memory by Merrill D. Peterson on Amazon click the button below.