Lincoln

Lincoln

Year: 2012

Runtime: 150 min

Language: English

Director: Steven Spielberg

BiographyDramaHistoryWar

As the Civil War rages on, President Lincoln navigates treacherous waters in his final days in office, driven by a fierce resolve to end the conflict, reunify the nation, and shatter the chains of slavery forever. With unwavering moral conviction, he makes pivotal decisions that will shape the course of American history and secure a legacy for generations to come.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Lincoln (2012)
Explore the full timeline and setting of Lincoln (2012). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

January 1865

The time period of January 1865 is marked by the final pushes to end the Civil War and abolish slavery through the constitutional amendment process. The country stands on the brink of monumental change as President Lincoln strives to secure the Thirteenth Amendment amidst a backdrop of tension, negotiation, and impending conflict resolution. This period encapsulates a turning point in American history, highlighting the nation's struggles and aspirations for liberty and equality.

Location

Washington D.C., Petersburg, Virginia, Ford's Theatre

Washington D.C. serves as the political heart of the United States, especially during the tumultuous times of the Civil War, as it houses the key players and monumental decisions regarding slavery and the Union. Petersburg, Virginia is a strategic location pivotal to the Civil War, famous for its sieges and battles that marked the conflict's latter stages. Ford's Theatre holds historical significance as the site of President Lincoln's assassination, forever marking its place in American history.

🏛️ Historical 🏙️ Capital 🎭 Theatre

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:04

Main Characters – Lincoln (2012)
Meet the key characters of Lincoln (2012), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Abraham Lincoln

Abraham Lincoln, portrayed by Daniel Day-Lewis, is depicted as a deeply principled leader grappling with the moral implications of slavery and the responsibilities of his presidency. His determination to secure the Thirteenth Amendment reflects his commitment to justice and equality for all. Lincoln's strategic mind and empathetic nature shine through as he negotiates political divides, showcasing his strength and vulnerability in a time of national crisis.

🧑‍⚖️ Leadership 📖 Legacy ⚖️ Justice

William Seward

William Seward, as Lincoln's Secretary of State, is portrayed as a loyal advisor and a pragmatic political strategist. His collaborative efforts with Lincoln to gather support for the amendment highlight his role in navigating the complex political landscape of the time. Seward's keen insights and commitment to the cause demonstrate his dedication to preserving the Union and facilitating the end of slavery.

🤝 Support 📜 Diplomacy 🕵️‍♂️ Strategy

Thaddeus Stevens

Thaddeus Stevens, played by Tommy Lee Jones, is depicted as a passionate and sometimes abrasive advocate for civil rights. He represents the Radical Republicans who are adamant about achieving true equality and justice. His character grapples with the political realities of compromise while maintaining a fierce commitment to ending slavery, showcasing the complexities of moral conviction amid political negotiations.

🔥 Advocacy 🖊️ Reform ⚖️ Civil Rights

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:04

Major Themes – Lincoln (2012)
Explore the central themes of Lincoln (2012), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

📜 Justice

Justice is a cornerstone theme in 'Lincoln', as the film revolves around President Lincoln's tireless efforts to ensure the passage of the Thirteenth Amendment to abolish slavery. It explores the moral imperatives surrounding law and equality, highlighting the struggles faced in the pursuit of justice during a divided nation. Through negotiations and strategic political maneuvers, the film illustrates the deep-rooted desire for moral reconciliation and the establishment of true freedom.

⚔️ Conflict

Conflict pervades throughout 'Lincoln', reflecting the intense political battles of the Civil War era. The struggle to pass the Thirteenth Amendment amidst differing opinions among Republicans and Democrats showcases the friction between wartime priorities and ethical responsibilities. As Lincoln navigates through political intrigue and dissent, the theme of conflict intensifies, ultimately leading to a tragic realization of the cost of war and the fight for human rights.

🤝 Unity

Unity is another significant theme as 'Lincoln' portrays the efforts to bring together a fractured nation. The push for the Thirteenth Amendment symbolizes not only a legal change but also a spiritual and political unification. Lincoln's determination to rally support across party lines illustrates the importance of collaboration in achieving progress. Ultimately, the film reflects on how unity in purpose can lead to transformative social change.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:04