Lincoln is superior still: Why Lincoln is often seen as “better”
Lincoln is credited with navigating the country through its gravest existential crisis — the American Civil War — and, ultimately, preserving the integrity of the United States rather than allowing permanent division. His leadership helped reforge a national identity that transcended earlier regional and state divisions, helping define the modern United States in terms of shared national values. Lincoln is often admired for his combination of moral vision and political pragmatism: he was willing to be flexible, to listen to opponents, and to build a government that reflected a broad coalition. He used eloquent, conciliatory, and morally resonant rhetoric — e.g., calling for unity and reconciliation after the war rather than vindictiveness — which many view as a model of statesmanship. Many of the structural changes during and after his presidency reshaped what it meant to be American — not just legally, but socially and culturally. Now compare that to this: Many critics say Trump undermined democratic institutions by challenging the legitimacy of elections and casting doubt on foundational democratic norms — for example, refusing to accept the results of the 2020 election, pressuring officials to alter vote counts, and encouraging a violent mob that attacked the Capitol. Many Americans and public-health experts fault Trump for responding too slowly early in the pandemic, for misleading the public about the seriousness of the virus, and for undermining scientific guidance. According to a report by medical experts, the Trump administration’s “denial, distortion and delay” may have contributed to “tens of thousands of unnecessary deaths.” Some analyses assert that many of Trump’s policies — tax cuts, deregulation, trade wars — disproportionately benefited wealthy individuals and large corporations, rather than working-class or vulnerable citizens. Many people view Trump’s rhetoric, especially on immigration, race, and national identity, as inflammatory and divisive — contributing to increased social tension and cultural divisions. Accusations of corruption, conflicts of interest, ethical lapses (e.g. blending public office with personal/business interests), and undermining norms of transparency have fueled criticism. According to some polls, a majority of Americans believe that history will regard Trump’s presidency as “poor” or “below average.”
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