This program highlights a shift in Lincoln’s aim as 1862 comes to a close. Turning from his sole focus of preserving the Union, Lincoln opens 1863 dedicated to freeing the slaves. Lincoln signs the Emancipation Proclamation, writes a famous letter to John C. Conkling, issues the Thanksgiving Proclamation, and gives The Gettysburg Address. A remarkable year!

This program focuses on the last fourteen months of Abraham Lincoln’s presidency, beginning with the appointment of Lt. General Grant as the overall commander of the Union army. Victories by Generals Sherman and Sheridan propel Lincoln to a successful presidential re-election. Lincoln plays a behind-the-scenes role in getting Congress to approve the 13th Amendment, abolishing slavery. Lincoln’s wish that the country would be restored and united with “a benevolent goodwill to all” is immortalized in his Second Inaugural Address.

This program highlights Abraham Lincoln’s connection with the Declaration of Independence and our founding fathers, and how these connections helped shape The Gettysburg Address. The audience will hear the phrase “all men are created equal” several times, for it is the phrase that guided Lincoln's life and how he treated others. This program will begin and end with The Gettysburg Address. The audience must hear the Address the first time to better appreciate the second time it’s recited. Prior to the second time, a detailed explanation about why certain words and phrases were used will increase one’s appreciation of the profound Address.