Richard Carwardine on Lincoln's life of purpose and power [audio 34min]

Richard Carwardine discusses the reason that he believes Lincoln has a claim to political greatness as a "historical figure." Keeping in mind that this term, "historical figure," has often been a subject for debate. Within this context, he explains different aspects of Lincoln's life as support for his claim to greatness. Analyzing Lincoln's greatness as well as his humility, Carwardine answers such questions as Why is Lincoln a mythic figure? How early in his career did he develop his views against slavery? What role did religion play in his life? Carwardine is Rhodes Professor of American History at Oxford University, author of Lincoln: A Life of Purpose and Power, and winner of the 2004 Lincoln Book Prize.