Abraham Lincoln: His Essential Wisdom gathers hundreds of quotations from Lincoln's letters, speeches, and other writings. The selections are arranged in categories that reflect the stages of Lincoln's life—from his early years on the frontiers of Kentucky and Indiana through his rise to prominence in law and politics in Illinois to his presidency.

In early love letters, Lincoln reveals his desire for domestic tranquility. In impassioned communications with friends he attacks the institution of slavery and its further extension. In telegrams to his generals, his political savvy is revealed in language that is both diplomatic and to the point. In letters to his wife, he proves to be a soothing husband, as well as a doting father to his "dear rascals." The book also includes the entire text of such landmark speeches as the Gettysburg Address and the Second Inaugural Address, in which Lincoln's words gave hope and solace to a nation torn apart.

In addition to Lincoln's own words, readers will find a harvest of quotations and anecdotes about the man from his family, friends, and colleagues, as well as excerpts from those who paid heartfelt tribute to him at the time of his death—eulogies that extol the man and still resonate today.