Winner of the Abraham Lincoln Institute of Washington’s 2019 book prize! A Renowned Historian Gives New Perspective on Statesmen at War Lewis E. Lehrman, a renowned historian and National Humanities Medal winner, gives new perspective on two of the greatest English-speaking statesmen—and their remarkable leadership in wars of national survival Abraham Lincoln and Winston Churchill, as commanders in chief, led their nations to victory—Lincoln in the Civil War, Churchill in World War II. They became revered leaders—statesmen for all time. Yet these two world-famous war leaders have never been seriously compared at book length. Acclaimed historian Lewis Lehrman, in his pathbreaking comparison of both statesmen, finds that Lincoln and Churchill—with very different upbringings and contrasting personalities—led their war efforts, to some extent, in similar ways. As supreme war lords, they were guided not only by principles of honor, duty, freedom, but also by the practical wisdom to know when, where, and how to apply these principles. They made mistakes which Lehrman considers carefully. But the author emphasizes that, despite setbacks, they never gave up. Even their writings and speeches were swords in battle. Gifted literary stylists, both men relied on the written and spoken word to steel their citizens throughout desperate and prolonged wars. Both statesmen unexpectedly left office near the end of their wars—Lincoln by the bullet, Churchill by the ballot.

Lewis E. Lehrman's biography recounts a purposeful life of accomplishments. He was instrumental early on in building up the family business, Rite Aid. Later he formed a successful investment business, joined Morgan Stanley, and founded a hedge fund. To further his passion for study, he founded the Lehrman Institute and, with Richard Gilder, the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History, receiving the National Humanities Medal in 2005 for their groundbreaking work in history. Lehrman endowed the Lincoln Prize, partnered with Monticello, and created the Gilder Lehrman Center for the Study of Slavery, Resistance, and Abolition at Yale. His significant collection of historical documents and artifacts is housed on the ground floor of the New-York Historical Society. Also a political conservative who worked at the grassroots level to promote ideas and issues, he ran for governor of New York against Mario Cuomo, went on to work with and challenge the Reagan administration, and then formed Citizens for America. Filled with interviews, remembrances, quotes, and photographs of the many influential personalities, partners, and associates Lew has worked with throughout his life, they best testify to his significance. The sometimes unexpected choices Lew has made and delivered on sum up an exemplary life--wide, deep, and well lived. It's his story, told the way he wants it to be recorded.