Brought Forth on This Continent

In "Brought Forth on This Continent," acclaimed historian Harold Holzer explores Abraham Lincoln’s complex relationship with immigration during the tumultuous years leading up to and during the Civil War. This award-winning account reveals how the influx of millions of foreign-born individuals transformed American society and politics, exposing deep-seated nativist sentiments that even influenced Lincoln’s own political affiliations. Holzer charts Lincoln's evolution from a member of a nativist party to an advocate for immigrant rights, emphasizing the crucial role of immigrant soldiers in the war. By drawing parallels between the past and present, this groundbreaking work offers a fresh perspective on Lincoln's legacy and the enduring impact of immigration in America.