1	Land of Lincoln in Second Life Book Discussion Group Discussion of One Man Great Enough, by John C. Waugh, on January 15, 2008
2	About Author and Book Published in 2007 by Harcourt Waugh lives in Pantego, Texas His website: http://www.johncwaugh.com His blog: http://historyspeak.blogspot.com/
3	The Main Points Overview of Lincoln’s life from his birth to his inauguration as President. Focus on politics and national issues, less on his private life, legal career, etc. Particularly strong on the decades-long struggle and competition between Lincoln and Douglas. Written well, with frequent quotes from the historical record.
4	Discussion Topics Lincoln’s early years: KY and IN His close relationship with his stepmother Poverty Love of reading His racial attitudes towards blacks His attitudes toward slavery Premature deaths of his mother, sister, and first love The New Salem years
5	Discussion Topics cont. Political Parties: Whigs, Democrats, Republicans, Know-Nothings, etc. States rights and territorial rights Declaration of Independence, Constitution, and the Northwest Ordinance of 1787 State legislative races Abolition and the mob killing in Alton Close male friendships: Speed, Herndon, etc.
6	Lincoln and Douglas Early acquaintance Douglas as lobbyist The ambitions of both men Douglas’ early political successes Lincoln’s jealousy Political issues and moral issues The great debates of the 1858 Senate race Douglas’ decline and early death
7	Lincoln the Lawyer Early study and apprenticeships Herndon becomes his law partner The spring and fall legal circuit Author interviews Poetry readings and recitations Artist interviews Training and orientation sessions Musical performances
8	"Thank you" Thank you for participating!