[Spoiler alert: let me suggest that you see the new Steven Spielberg movie LINCOLN before you read this series of blog entries.]
The first of the many dazzling characteristics of Daniel Day-Lewis's "Lincoln" is the President’s even-temperedness and approachability. He may be President of the United States but he’s as comfortable as an old pair of slippers.
The movie opens on a rainy evening. A battle has just concluded and two soldiers are speaking to someone out of view of the camera explaining what happened in the battle. As the camera pulls back it becomes clear that we are looking over the shoulder of President Abraham Lincoln. What is remarkable about him is his zen-like tranquility in the presence of a private to corporal – and their comfort in the presence of the President of the United States.
He proves to be equally tranquil as he is told by his advisers that the passage of the 13th amendment abolishing slavery is simply not possible; the votes in the House can't be had, he needs to deal with a group of high-ranking Confederate peace emissaries, he needs to focus on winning the war first, etc.
This is not a man to be rattled!
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