Trump’s Unusual Obsession
In a surprising turn of events, it seems that former President Donald Trump’s fascination lies not with his own predecessors, but with the legendary Abraham Lincoln. This unexpected revelation sheds light on Trump’s mindset and offers a glimpse into his unique perspective on history.
The story goes back to Trump’s first term, where a conversation with his senior White House aide, Steve Bannon, took an intriguing turn. Bannon suggested watching Ken Burns’ iconic documentary on the Civil War in the White House movie theater, hoping to draw parallels between Lincoln’s struggles and the challenges faced by modern presidents. To Bannon’s surprise, Trump had already watched the entire series at his New Jersey home, sparking a newfound interest in the 16th president.
A Curious Fixation
Trump’s infatuation with Lincoln extends beyond mere admiration for his presidency. From pondering the logistics of Lincoln’s tall stature fitting into a 19th-century bed to questioning the necessity of the Civil War, Trump’s musings on Honest Abe reveal a complex interplay between history and personal intrigue. Despite acknowledging Lincoln’s greatness, Trump seems wary of the former president’s exalted status in the annals of American history, hinting at a deeper underlying sentiment.
Parallels and Contrasts
The parallels between Trump and Lincoln, as pointed out by political science professor Brandon Rottinghaus, are both intriguing and imperfect. Both men faced a deeply divided nation and sought to bring their unique life experiences to bear on solving complex problems. Trump’s self-perceived dedication to the presidency mirrors Lincoln’s commitment to the office, albeit with stark differences in background and approach.
A Futuristic Perspective
Trump’s penchant for counterfactual scenarios, such as claiming he could have defeated a mythical Washington-Lincoln ticket in the 2020 election, offers a glimpse into his strategic thinking. Whether pondering alternate histories or envisioning himself as a modern-day dealmaker a la Lincoln, Trump’s fascination with the past opens a window into his mindset and ambitions for the future.
As we navigate the complexities of Trump’s historical musings, it becomes clear that his obsession with Lincoln transcends mere admiration. From questioning the inevitability of the Civil War to envisioning himself as a pivotal figure in American history, Trump’s unique perspective challenges us to rethink our understanding of the past and its implications for the present.
