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Minnesota ?. Also the Land of Lincoln

By Eric L. Lipman

Today, the Minneapolis-based Center of the American Experiment released its latest symposium of essays ? Learning from Lincoln: Principle and Pragmatism, Getting the Balance Right.

Individually, and collectively, these essays touch upon President Lincoln?s special brand of statecraft and the methods that he used to overcome practical challenges.

As shown in the accompanying photograph, which was taken from inside the chamber of the Minnesota House of Representatives, Lincoln?s work, presidency and example still forms an important backdrop to policy discussions in Saint Paul. Indeed, Lincoln, who himself was a prairie legislator for four terms, remains something of a patron saint to all of those who struggle with difficult questions at the State Capitol. In part, this is because any Minnesota Representative who vies for recognition from the Speaker of the House, first meets Lincoln?s eyes, as the President gazes back from the portrait above the presiding officer. I am certain that over the years, recalling how Lincoln remained decorous and calm in times of bitter conflict, has helped his successors here to choose better and softer words in floor debates. Lincoln reminds us of our best hopes and our better natures. He certainly did for me.

You can see how each of the symposium authors addressed Lincoln?s continuing leadership legacy ? including my submission on page 28 ? from this link here.

Full post as published by Within the Scope on August 21, 2008 (boomark / email).