History Daily Podcast Summary

Episode Title: Processing...
Release Date: November 19, 2024
Host: Lindsey Graham
Produced by: Airship | Noiser | Wondery

Introduction

In this poignant episode of History Daily, host Lindsey Graham delves into one of the most significant moments in American history: the Gettysburg Address delivered by President Abraham Lincoln on November 19, 1863. Through a meticulous recounting of events leading up to the speech, the episode explores the tumultuous period of the American Civil War, Lincoln's personal struggles, and the enduring legacy of his brief yet impactful address.

Setting the Stage: Gettysburg and the Civil War

The episode opens in late June 1863, in the town of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. The nation is engulfed in civil strife, with the Civil War raging between the Northern Union and Southern Confederacy. Lindsey Graham paints a vivid picture of the tension and uncertainty of the time:

"The War between the States... began in April of 1861, after decades of simmering tensions between Northern and Southern states, primarily over the issue of slavery." (00:25)

The Union has faced a series of defeats over the past year, and rumors of a Confederate invasion into the North heighten the sense of impending conflict. Civilian life is disrupted as Confederate soldiers march into Gettysburg, leading to the pivotal Battle of Gettysburg from July 1-3, 1863. This battle is highlighted as a turning point, with tens of thousands of casualties and the eventual Union victory that stifles General Robert E. Lee's ambitions to invade the North.

Lincoln's Turmoil: Balancing War and Politics

Amidst the chaos of war, President Abraham Lincoln grapples with both military and political challenges. Lindsey Graham provides an intimate look into Lincoln's state of mind:

"President Lincoln paces back and forth in the telegraph office for days. The President has barely eaten. He hasn't washed his hands or face or gotten a good night's sleep." (04:38)

The episode details Lincoln's frustration with Union General George Meade's lackluster pursuit of Lee's retreating Confederate forces, which prolongs the war by two more years. Additionally, domestic unrest surfaces with the July 1863 draft riots in New York City, exacerbating Lincoln's despair and sense of helplessness.

Lincoln's political acumen is also under scrutiny as he navigates the delicate balance of uniting his party ahead of the 1864 elections. His strategic decision to use the power of his pen, rather than federal authority, to address national issues underscores his leadership style during this tumultuous period.

"If I had gone up there, I would have whipped them myself. Our army held the war in the hollow of their hand, and they would not close it." (07:28)

The Birth of the Gettysburg Address

As the war drags on and Lincoln battles internal and external pressures, he begins to formulate a speech that would eventually become the Gettysburg Address. Lindsey Graham narrates the president's contemplative process:

"Lincoln reflects on the many letters he's received from the people, imploring him to offer some words of comfort and purpose to remind the people why their loved ones are fighting and dying." (08:45)

Despite his exhaustion and the immense responsibility weighing on him, Lincoln dedicates himself to crafting a message that would encapsulate the essence of the Union's struggle and the principles it stands for. The narrative builds up to Lincoln leaving the White House with his unfinished address, setting the stage for the historic speech at Gettysburg.

The Delivery of the Gettysburg Address

On November 19, 1863, President Lincoln arrives in Gettysburg to dedicate the national cemetery established to honor the fallen soldiers of the battle. Lindsey Graham recounts the day's events with dramatic flair:

"Dressed in a black suit and his signature stovepipe hat, the gentleman who spoke right before Lincoln talked for over two hours. Lincoln speaks for two minutes, but his 272-word speech moves the crowd to tears." (17:54)

Despite his initial self-doubt and feelings of inadequacy about the speech, Lincoln delivers words that resonate deeply with the audience and history alike. He famously begins with:

"Fourscore and seven years ago..." (09:09)

Although Lincoln later expresses disappointment in the immediate reception of his speech, considering it a "flat failure," the episode emphasizes the profound and lasting impact the Gettysburg Address would eventually have.

Aftermath and Legacy

In the aftermath of the speech, Lincoln grapples with his own assessment of its efficacy:

"Perhaps Lincoln's tireless work. His failing health and lack of proper sleep contributed to his cloudy assessment. In his speech, Lincoln said, 'the world will little note nor long remember what we say here, but it can never forget what they did here.' In the end, the world remembered both." (19:38)

The episode concludes by highlighting the enduring significance of the Gettysburg Address as a rallying cry for the Union, a foundational moment for the United States, and a source of inspiration that continues to resonate over 150 years later.

Conclusion

This episode of History Daily masterfully intertwines the personal struggles of Abraham Lincoln with the broader historical context of the Civil War, culminating in the creation and delivery of the Gettysburg Address. Lindsey Graham's detailed narration, coupled with insightful quotes and thorough research, offers listeners a comprehensive understanding of a pivotal moment that shaped the United States.

Notable Quotes:

• Abraham Lincoln:

  "If I had gone up there, I would have whipped them myself. Our army held the war in the hollow of their hand, and they would not close it." (07:28)

• Abraham Lincoln:

  "Fourscore and seven years ago..." (09:09)

• Abraham Lincoln:

  "The world will little note nor long remember what we say here, but it can never forget what they did here." (19:38)

Next Episode Preview:
On November 20, 1992, Windsor Castle is devastated by a fire, raising questions about the cost and future of the British monarchy.

Produced by Airship and Noiser, Edited by Molly Bach, Music by Thrum.