Lincoln the Inventor

In this first thorough examination of Abraham Lincoln’s mechanical mind, Jason Emerson brings forth the complete story of Lincoln’s invention and patent as more than mere historical footnote. Emerson shows how, when, where, and why Lincoln developed his invention; how his penchant for inventions and innovation was part of his larger political belief in internal improvements and free labor principles; how his interest in the topic led him to try his hand at scholarly lecturing; and how Lincoln, as president, encouraged and even contributed to the creation of new weapons for the Union during the Civil War.

Lincoln the Inventor delves into the ramifications of Lincoln’s intellectual curiosity and inventiveness, both as a civilian and as president, and considers how they  allow a fresh insight into his overall character and contributed in no small way to his greatness. By understanding Lincoln the inventor, we better understand Lincoln the man.

“With the care and precision of an expert, Jason Emerson brings to light a vitally important and deeply revealing side of our greatest president. Most people know Lincoln for his political writings, pronouncements, and speeches; few know him as an inventor and imaginative technological thinker.”

— Mark Fiege, author of The Republic of Nature: An Environmental History of the United States

“This is an elegant and fascinating exploration into the scientific mind of one of America’s greatest presidents. Emerson illuminates how Lincoln’s lifelong intellectual curiosity and academic pursuits on discoveries and inventions buoyed his historic leadership in law, politics, war, statecraft, and technological advancement. With fresh knowledge and insights, Emerson broadens our understanding of Lincoln as both moral and mechanical engineer of our nation.”

— Michelle Malkin, author of Who Built That: Awe-Inspiring Stories of American Tinkerpreneurs