Introduction -- The courtship, 1839-1842 -- The Springfield years, 1842-1861 -- The White House years, 1861-1865 -- Conclusion -- Appendix: An appraisal of the literature on the Lincolns' marriage

Explores the tumultuous marriage between Abraham Lincoln and Mary Todd, including an examination of her illicit business dealings, alleged physical abuse, and their disagreements about values

Lincoln had good reason to regret his marriage to Mary Todd. Burlingame shows that, as First Lady, Mary Lincoln accepted bribes and kickbacks, sold permits and pardons, engaged in extortion, and peddled influence. The reader comes to learn that Lincoln wed Mary Todd because, in all likelihood, she seduced him and then insisted that he protect her honor. Perhaps surprisingly, the 5'2" Mrs. Lincoln often physically abused her 6'4" husband, as well as her children and servants; she humiliated her husband in public; she caused him, as president, to fear that she would disgrace him publicly. Though Lincoln was far from an ideal husband, Mary Lincoln's behavior helped make him "a man of sorrows." -- adapted from jacket and Introduction