The American Mind

Description

Professor Christopher Flannery examines the prominence of the Declaration of Independence in U.S. history and present life, the context in which it was written, and the intentions of its drafters. He looks at the ethics and morality represented in the document.

A New Birth of Freedom

Description

Professors Mackubin T. Owens and Lucas E. Morel discuss general issues related to the Civil War, including the role of African-American soldiers in the war and the various frameworks in which historians have cast the war since its completion.

Lincoln and Civil Liberties

Description

Professor Mackubin T. Owens looks at Abraham Lincoln's actions as president in relation to civil rights and liberties. Owens considers whether Lincoln abused his presidential powers and deprived citizens of civil liberties without justification or whether his actions were appropriate and justified. He also includes some preliminary discussion of Lincoln's military strategy during the war.

The Election of 1860

Description

Professor Lucas E. Morel looks at the presidential campaign and election of 1860, in which Abraham Lincoln was elected President. The lecture also includes some examination of the 1858 Senate campaign debates between Lincoln and Stephen A. Douglas.